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Lenoir-Rhyne University and H1N1
Lenoir-Rhyne University continues to monitor the H1N1 flu activity. As part of the Lenoir-Rhyne community, you too can be active in the prevention of H1N1. Outlined below are answers to frequently asked questions about H1N1. What is H1N1?
Novel H1N1 (also referred to as swine flu) is a new influenza virus that is similar to the seasonal influenza virus. This virus is contagious and spread in a similar way as seasonal influenza. How do I catch H1N1?
H1N1 is thought to spread the same way the seasonal flu spreads through person to person contact: sneezing, coughing or touching an object that has been contaminated by someone with the flu. It is not spread through pork products. How do I prevent H1N1?
1. First, wash your hands!! Good hand washing with soap and warm water is an important preventative measure for the spread of germs and viruses. Good hand washing means washing your hands long enough (30-60 seconds) to decontaminate your hands. If you do not have access to hand soap and water, use alcohol based hand sanitizer gels. 2. Avoid touching your mouth, eyes, or nose. 3. Do not share food, drink, or cell phones. 4. Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have a tissue available, sneeze or cough into your sleeve in the bend of your elbow. Wash your hands after you cough or sneeze. 5. Stay away from friends or family that you know are sick. 6. Practice social distancing. What does that mean? Avoid travel and large crowds this fall/winter. This includes visiting your friends at other colleges or having them visit you at LRU. How do I know if I have H1N1 versus a cold?
The table below outlines the difference in signs and symptoms. Note that typically you do not have a fever with a cold. Be sure to see the Student Health Nurse if you think you have a fever or are not sure. H1N1/Flu
What if I think I have H1N1?
Report to or call (828-328-7181) the LRU Student Health Center or your primary care physician. If the Student Health Center or your primary care physician is closed then go to an urgent care center or the closest emergency room. If the Student Health Center is closed, you need to tell your Resident Director (RD) if you think you have the H1N1 virus. The symptoms below are considered to be an emergency in adults. You need to seek emergency room care if you: Experience difficulty or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in your chest or abdomen Flu like symptoms that improve but then return with fever or a worse cough How is H1N1 treated?
Currently, prescription anti-viral medications (Relenza or Tamiflu) are recommended for the treatment of H1N1. These medications have to be taken within 48 hours of the onset of a temperature above 100.4. If you have an underlying medical condition, diabetes, asthma, or are pregnant it is extremely important to seek care immediately if you think you have the flu. What about the H1N1 vaccine?
State and Federal health agencies will be distributing and funding the H1N1 vaccine. Lenoir-Rhyne University is registered with the North Carolina Department of Public Health and waiting for shipment of the H1N1 vaccine. LRU does not know how many vaccines will be shipped. The Student Health Center webpage will be updated to notify you when the free vaccines arrive. The Student Health Center will utilize email, posters, and other forms of communication to inform students of the availability of the H1N1 vaccine. What about seasonal flu vaccines?
Lenoir-Rhyne has ordered seasonal influenza vaccines and will make these available for students, faculty, and staff when the shipment arrives. There will be a fee to receive the vaccine. Typically, seasonal influenza vaccination does not begin until after October 1st. The Student Health Center webpage will be updated when the seasonal flu vaccines are available. Lenoir-Rhyne University will continue to monitor this situation and assess each student’s needs individually. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Jamie Linquist, RN-BC, Director of Student Health Services at 828-328-7181 or email

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