May 4, 2009

Troy University statement on H1-N1 flu

The Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed that a Troy University student is the latest “probable” case of the H1-N1 flu reported in Alabama. The student is enrolled on the Troy Campus.

According to Dean of Student Services Herb Reeves, the student lives off campus. The student’s identity has not been released to University officials at this time due to privacy regulations. State Health Officer Don Williamson said Monday afternoon that the TROY student is currently recovering at home. Williamson said cases defined as “probable” have a 95 percent or greater chance of testing positive for H1-N1.

Reeves said that any student who is exhibiting flu-like symptoms should contact the student health center (334-670-3452) or their personal physician immediately.

University officials are today directing students, who are in the midst of final examinations for the semester, to not take exams if they have flu-like symptoms. Students who do not take exams due to a legitimate health concern may take an incomplete in the course and make up the final exam when the H1-N1 flu concern has passed. In addition, University officials are recommending that students or their family members who have flu-like symptoms not attend Troy Campus commencement ceremony scheduled for Friday, May 8.

Troy University officials are directing students, faculty and staff to exercise extreme caution, and minimize their exposure to the flu virus. Procedures last week were distributed to students, faculty and staff regarding personal protective measures that may be employed by individuals to limit exposure to the virus. They include:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

In addition, it is recommended that you try to avoid close contact with sick people because:

• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Reeves said the University will continue to work with local and state health officials to monitor the current situation and to track and report any probable H1-N1 cases to the proper authorities.