H1N1 Flu Information

      This Web page is the primary information resource for the University of Cincinnati community for issues and questions regarding the H1N1 (Swine) flu virus. Presented here is the university’s detailed pandemic response plan, along with information for students, parents and employees regarding H1N1, including the most effective preventative measures and UC policies regarding what to do should you become sick.                                                                  

UC Current Status – Phase Three

Frequently Asked Questions

Flu Vaccine Status

General information on Flu Pandemic Planning

Memos and Bulletins

Information for Students

Information for Residential Students

Information for Faculty

Infomation for Employees

Information for Supervisors

H1N1 Flu Information flyers: http://www.uc.edu/pubsafety/documents/emergency_service/Flu_brochure.pdf

UC Pandemic Response Plan: http://www.uc.edu/pubsafety/documents/emergency_service/pandemic_plan_public.pdf 

CDC H1N1 Flu Information:  http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/institutions/guidance  

World Health Organization Current Pandemic Alert Level: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/phase/en/index.html

What is H1N1?
H1N1 Influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get H1N1 flu, but human infections can and do happen. In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of H1N1 flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed H1N1 flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/investigation.htm 

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does H1N1 flu spread?
Spread of this influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.