Q&A re: H1N1 preparedness and prevention at Messiah College

Last updated 8/26/09
Posted 4/27/09

Background

Since the spring of 2009, there has been increased news coverage regarding the occurrence of H1N1 (swine flu) outbreaks in certain countries and specific locations within the United States, including Pennsylvania and the states surrounding Messiah College.

Realizing that Messiah College students, employees, parents, and others may have concerns about how our campus community is responding to and preparing for this health issue, the College is carefully monitoring information released by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Department of State, so that we might keep our campus community up-to-date on personal health recommendations and travel precautions.

Messiah is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those in our college community. Please visit the links below to learn more about how we are taking responsible, precautionary measures to prevent the occurrence of this specific health issue on our campus.

About H1N1

Staying Healthy

Managing Illness

Messiah's Engle Health Center's Response

Difference between cold, seasonal flu, and H1N1

 

Other H1N1 FAQs

What if I have recently traveled to an area where human H1N1 infection is confirmed?

Closely monitor your health for seven days after leaving the infected region.  If you develop fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or possibly vomiting and diarrhea, contact your primary care provider immediately. 

Does Messiah College have students studying off campus in affected areas?

Yes, Messiah College has had students staying and currently studying in affected countries or cities.  The College, through its EpiCenter, communicates with traveling students and their parents, encourage students to take seriously the health precautions recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.  College officials are also carefully monitoring travel advisories.

Is Messiah College canceling any events or activities?

At this time, the College is not planning to cancel any of its already scheduled on-campus events or activities.  Members of the Crisis Management Team will continue to monitor the impact of H1N1 and adhere to recommendations posted by global and national organizations like the CDC and World Health Organization.

Who can I contact at the College if I have additional questions about H1N1?

Questions may be directed to the Engle Center for Counseling and Health Services at (717) 691-6035.. 

Sources:  Messiah College Engle Center for Counseling and Health Services and the Center for Disease Control website.