Prevention is the key element in the fight against an outbreak of the H1N1 flu virus on our campus this semester, and the staff at the University’s Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center met during the summer with representatives from campus departments and organizations to develop and disseminate prevention information to faculty, students, and staff.

“The University has an H1N1 pandemic planning team in place and we are prepared for any eventuality,” says Jill Guzman, associate director, counseling, health, and wellness. “We would like to stress that all individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms should stay home and self-isolate. This will reduce the risk of a major outbreak on campus.”

Members of the campus community may now call a hotline 973-720-H1N1 (4161) or visit the University’s Web at site www.wpunj.edu for the latest information about the flu. The Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center is following guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), that outline recommended responses to influenza for institutions of higher education for the 2009-2010 academic year. These are accessible at flu.gov.

Significant among the recommendations are that anyone with a flu-like illness should stay away from classes and limit interactions with others until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours. Residential students who become ill with flu-like symptoms may be asked to leave the residence halls. Frequent hand-washing with soap and water is essential and good respiratory etiquette, covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, should be practiced. Tissues should then be thrown into a trash container.

Additionally, contingency plans have been designed to guide faculty and staff in the event of an outbreak that would lead to excessive absenteeism.

Seasonal flu vaccine will be available to students, faculty, and staff on September 29, October 14 and October 29 for $30. H1N1vaccines may be available at a later date.