Swine Flu Update

This advisory is being sent by Caldwell College Health Services as a general information bulletin in response to the media reports regarding Swine Flu.   There are no reported or suspected cases at Caldwell College. Currently there are no changes to the college's operations or activities. We will keep you informed as information becomes available.

In order to monitor the health and safety of the campus, we are requesting that any student who is staying home due to influenza-like-illness, please contact Health Services at 973.618.3319.

Health Services is in contact with both the local and county Health Departments regarding this situation and the website will be updated as information becomes available.

Key Facts about Swine Flu:

  • Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs that doesn’t normally impact humans.  However, it is contagious and is currently spreading from human to human.
  • Swine Flu is spread the same way as the seasonal flu: by contact with infected people who are coughing and sneezing.
  • Signs and Symptoms:
    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Sore throat
    • Body aches
    • Headache
    • Chills
    • Fatigue
  • Emergency Warning Signs that need immediate medical attention:
    • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
    • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
    • Sudden dizziness
    • Confusion
    • Severe or persistent vomiting

Common Sense Ways to Control Flu Virus Spread

  • Use good hygiene practices
    • Cover mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing with tissue and then place tissue immediately in trash.  If no tissue available, cover nose or mouth with upper sleeve.
    • Clean hands immediately after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose.
    • Use soap and warm water and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.  If hand washing is not possible, use the hand sanitizers located around the campus. 
    • Always wash your hands before eating.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
    • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    • Stay home from school or work when you are sick.
  • Clean and disinfect hard surfaces and items
    • Use disinfectants to clean all hard surfaces especially those used by multiple people.  Follow label instructions carefully when using disinfectants and cleaners.
    • If disinfectants are not available, use a chlorine bleach solution made with 1 tablespoon of bleach to 4 cups of water.
  • Use recommended laundry practices.
  • Use recommended waste disposal practices

For more information, below are some helpful links:
Center for Disease Control -  www.Cdc.gov./swineflu/
World Health Organization – www.who.org
Information on travel precautions – www.cdc.gov/travel

 

Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs