H1N1 Update

Dear Students:

We hope your term abroad is off to a good start.  To help you maximize your experience abroad, we have some information to share with you with regard to the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu).  While H1N1 flared up late last spring, countries in the Northern Hemisphere weren't hit with its full force.  However, as we enter our traditional flu season as fall and winter approach, infections are anticipated to rise everywhere.  Please read the following to maximize your health and safety.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.  Being abroad exposes you to germs to which your immune system is unaccustomed.
 
What You Can Do to Promote Good Health

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

If You Get Sick, Especially with Cold and Flu Symptoms

• Call your health care provider immediately:
  
  • If you are at higher risk of complications from the flu, if you are pregnant or have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or are 65 years of age or older.
  • If you have cold or flu symptoms and are not sure if you should see a health care provider for treatment.
  • If your symptoms are getting worse.
  • For any specific questions that you may have regarding your health.
• Seek emergency care, if you have:
  
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• The Center for Disease Control recommends that you stay home from school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Inform the USAC Resident Director or in-country liaison from your home.  He or she can assist you in seeking medical care.
• Do not return to school until 24 hours after you no longer have a fever without the use of fever reducing medications.

Please note that the Resident Director will help USAC students arrange make-up exams if you stay home sick with the flu.  The best thing to do at this time is stay informed as events develop and know where to go for more information.  Here are some resources to do so:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
World Health Organizations
U.S. Department of State
UNLV Student Health Center H1N1 Information

We hope you have a great (and healthy) experience abroad.