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TCC Preparedness: H1N1 Flu Information Update #2 for students: september 15, 2009
Dear TCC Students:
I write to provide an update on the H1N1 flu situation as it relates to TCC and guidance with respect to reporting potential H1N1 cases.
Current Situation
As of this afternoon, the college is aware of two, self-reported, unconfirmed cases of H1N1 flu in students. Both students are at home recovering. Using our established relationships with the Public Health departments in the localities we serve, we have consulted with the appropriate office regarding the college’s response to reported cases of the H1N1 flu.
The guidance regarding prevention, care for sick individuals, and returning to work or classroom settings remains as stated in the August 25 update. Put very simply (with appreciation to the University of Virginia for this succinct rendition):
Prevention
- Wash your hands, often and well, with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel or wipes when there is no water.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes, then throw the tissue away and wash or sanitize your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Eat well, stay hydrated, rest, exercise, and follow good-health guidelines.
- Check with your healthcare provider for the seasonal flu vaccine. The vaccine for H1N1 flu will be available later in the fall – watch for announcements.
Treatment
- Know the flu symptoms – fever, headache, chills, body aches, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, and occasionally nausea or diarrhea.
- If you have these symptoms, stay home, rest, and drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. Don’t smoke.
- Over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen and, for adults, aspirin may reduce aches and fever. Decongestants, cough medicines, and a humidifier may also help.
- Call your doctor.
Recovery
- When you have been off fever-reducing medicine such as aspirin and fever-free for 24 hours, you may go back to your normal activities.
Reporting Guidance
TCC continues to take measures to prevent the spread of H1N1 flu and to prepare for conditions that may result should it have a significant impact on college operations.
You can help in this effort by continuing to practice good respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene. In the event that you are absent due to the flu, do the following:
- Follow the care guidance and precautions provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/.
- Do not return to class until you have been off fever-reducing medicine such as aspirin and fever-free (100°F) for 24 hours.
- Report your case to your respective Campus Provost:
- Chesapeake Campus - Dr. Linda M. Rice, Provost
(757) 822-5201, LRice@tcc.edu
- Norfolk Campus - Dr. Alex J. Kajstura, Provost
822-1180, AKajstura@tcc.edu
- Portsmouth Campus - Dr. Terry L. Jones, Provost
(757) 822-2242, TLjones@tcc.edu
- Virginia Beach Campus - Dr. Michael D. Summers, Provost
(757) 822-7122, MSummers@tcc.edu
Regards,
Frank Dunn
Vice President for Administration
Tidewater Community College
121 College Place
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