Dear Purdue students,

The World Health Organization has raised the swine flu alert to its highest level, saying the H1N1 virus has spread to enough countries to be considered a global pandemic. Increasing the alert to Phase 6 does not mean that the disease is deadlier or more dangerous than before, but instead indicates that it has spread worldwide.

We urge all students to take precautions against the spread of the communicable disease and avoid travel to infected areas. Also please monitor the Purdue home page where any updates will be posted.

The university is monitoring the situation closely. At this time there is no indication of any imminent local emergency.

If you think you have the flu, or if you have flulike symptoms, the best thing you can do is stay home and contact the Purdue Student Health Center or your own medical provider and ask for instructions. Purdue students may contact the student health center at 765-494-1700.

The worst thing you could do is attend a class if you are truly sick. Alert your professor and ask to be excused. You may need to provide a medical release upon returning.

Basic flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, chills and body aches. Seek emergency care immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

*       Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

*       Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

*       Sudden dizziness

*       Confusion

*       Severe or persistent vomiting

As with most viruses, flu is spread in several ways: orally, by ingestion, by inhalation, or by splashing contamination on abraded skin or into puncture wounds. To prevent spread:

*       Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

*       Cough into your sleeve or a tissue to avoid spreading germs. Do not cough into your hands. Dispose of tissues in a wastebasket.

*       Wash your hands with soap under warm running water for 20 seconds and rinse your hands well. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

*       Dry your hands using a paper towel or air dryer. If possible, use the paper towel to turn off the faucet and turn the knob on the door handle.

*       Avoid contact with people who are ill.

Flu symptoms usually appear 24-48 hours after being exposed to the virus, and people remain contagious for seven days after the onset of symptoms.

We need to watch out for each other. If you know of anyone who has flulike symptoms, urge them to contact their health-care provider. Also let others know. Tell your residence hall assistants and leaders in fraternities, sororities and co-ops so they can help.

More information is available by clicking on the Swine Flu link on the Purdue homepage and reading the material under "Personal Health and Safety." The URL is https://www.purdue.edu/fluinfo

Sincerely,

James S. Westman, Ph.D.

Director, Purdue Student Health Center