By ASU News Services Staff

Alabama State University officials are closely monitoring all developments related to the H1N1 influenza outbreak and carefully preparing for the possibility of an increased number of cases of the virus this fall.  

It is vital that students and employees who are experiencing flu-like symptoms seek medical attention promptly and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus.

In an effort to ensure the health of students and employees, we have compiled a list of helpful information, resources and links regarding flu symptoms and prevention.

SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU

·         Fever of 100° or more

·         Cough

·         Sore Throat

·         Runny or stuffy nose

·         Body aches/headaches

·         Chills

·         Fatigue

·         Diarrhea and vomiting

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST SPREADING THE FLU

Limit contact with others if you are sick

·         Those experiencing flu-like symptoms should avoid contact with others as much as possible by staying home from classes and work to prevent spreading the flu virus.

·         The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends those who have flu-like symptoms stay home from classes and work until they have been fever-free, without the use of fever reducing medications, for at least 24 hours.

Practice Good Hygiene

·         It is important for everyone to wash their hands and/or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after personal contact with others or after contact with surfaces that have been touched by others (door knobs, desks, computer keyboards, etc.).

·         Clean personal space and frequently handled surfaces or objects regularly with Lysol disinfectant or bleach-based solutions such as Clorox wipes. Do not share personal items such as cups, eating utensils, lip gloss, etc.

·         Always use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of the tissue in a garbage container immediately, and wash your hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

·         Keep your hands away from the eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible, as this is how cold and flu germs typically enter the body.  

HELPFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES REGARDING H1N1/INFLUENZA

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Alabama Department of Public Health (ADP)

World Health Organization (WHO)

Flu.gov (U.S. Government)