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Treatment
Influenza - H1N1, avian, seasonal, etc. - is a virus. That means that antibiotics are not a treatment option. Generally, engaging in good self-care that addresses the symptoms is the primary option.
Antivirals, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, are one course of response. However,
antivirals are generally prescribed only for individuals with flu who are either hospitalized, have a chronic medical condition or have a suppressed immune system or if they are seriously ill. Antiviral medication for influenza is not a cure—and only reduces symptoms and decreases length of recovery time by about 24 hours. Finally, the health care community has concerns about overuse of the drug in a time of pandemic which could limit the effectiveness of antivirals as the virus adapts to its presence. As such, antivirals will not be an automatic course of treatment for students presenting with influenza like illness.
1. The first step a student should take is to (apartment or residence hall room). Thenthe Office of Student Affairs (x6220) or Health & Wellness Center (x6275) to report your illness. Note that the Office of Student Affairs is creating a list of sick students, staff and faculty for the purposes of tracking the illness on campus and to organize support for sick community members. The HWC will be sharing your name and location and the fact that you are ill but no other details will be released. We must do so because of the public health/pandemic concern. Students that live in the residence halls should notify their RHD to get a food take-out option established for meals.
Students should refer to the communication sent to them the week of September 7th for specific information and responsbilities.
If you have a pre-existing condition such as asthma, diabetes, are immuno-suppressed, heart condition, or other chronic health concern, please contact the Health & Wellness Center (x6275)for an appointment if you begin to experience a fever and other symptoms.
2. The Health & Wellness Center is creating flu care kits to be available in the residence halls that students can pick up if they are not feeling well. It has basic OTC meds, a disposable thermometer, mask, throat care that should enable a student to get through a night or weekend. [note: as of 9/8/09 we are still waiting to receive supplies for the kits and will alert students and staff when they are available]
3. Review the list of influenza symptoms and treatment options on the MN Dept. of Health web page. It is fairly comprehensive and covers everything from fever to dehydration.
The general self-care strategies are
* rest - get plenty of sleep
* take fever-reducing medications such as acetominophen or ibuprofen (aspirin is not recommended)
* drink plenty of liquids
* gargle with salt water if you have a sore throat and use throat lozenges
* continue washing your hands or using waterless hand sanitizer to avoid spreading the virus to others
* wiping down communal areas such as the bathroom sink/handles, your door knobs, room phone with disinfectant wipes is a good idea to control the spread as well.
4. If any of your symptoms worsen, call the Health & Wellness Center (x6275). If you develop severe symptoms such as increased fever, shortness of breath, chest
pain or pressure or rapid breathing, have difficulty swallowing and the HWC is closed, seek medical attention at an urgent care facility or
emergency room (after-hour resources are listed on the HWC web site). Use private transportation - car or a taxi -
do not use public transportation. Security or the RHD on duty can assist you with cab vouchers if needed. Always call before going to urgent care or the emergency room to confirm that is the appropriate place for you to be going for your symptoms.
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