Important H1N1 Notice

September 11, 2009 |

Dear Members of the Goucher Community,

In the interest of keeping the college community informed as we work through flu season on campus, I want to tell you that, to date, we have four students who have been diagnosed with influenza-like illnesses. We have not been able to confirm whether the students have contracted the H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu, but local health officials have documented that the majority of individuals in this area who have flu-like symptoms do indeed have the H1N1 virus rather than the seasonal flu. In order to best protect the health of the entire Goucher community, we are treating the sick students as if they have H1N1.

The students have been given the following instructions, which will also be given to any student who exhibits symptoms:

• If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, you should call, but not visit, Goucher’s Health Center to discuss your symptoms. The number is 410-337-6050.
• Self-isolate (do not leave your room except to use the bathroom).
• Until your fever is gone, do not attend classes. Notify the dean of students, who will advise your professors that you are sick.
• Until your fever is gone, do not go to the dining halls or other large public gathering places. We will make arrangements to have your meals delivered to you through your roommate, friend, or CA (whichever is most convenient).
• Your CA will provide you with a flu kit, which will include a face mask. Wear this mask when you are likely to come into contact with people.
• Make arrangements to have an adequate supply of over-the-counter medication necessary to treat your flu symptoms. Your CA can help with this.
• Heighten your personal hygiene practices, such as washing your hands often, covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze/cough, and using tissues.

You must continue to self-isolate until you have been free of fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

• If you need anything or if your symptoms worsen, and you wish to be evaluated by an emergency medical technician, please contact the Goucher Office of Public Safety at 410-337-6111. This is also the number to call to reach the on-call Community Living staff person if you need anything after hours or on the weekends.
• You can have a friend or CA pick up your meals for you at the front station of Stimson Hall on weekdays anytime after 11:30 a.m. for lunch and after 4:30 p.m. for dinner, and on weekends anytime after 10:30 a.m. for brunch and after 5:30 p.m. for dinner. Remember to give your ID card to whomever is picking up your meals, and he or she can let the front worker know about the arrangements to pick up your boxed meal. Your CA can also help you with this.

For all faculty, staff, and students:

Please remember to take these steps every day to prevent the spread of germs and protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve, not your hand.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Visit www.goucher.edu/H1N1 to stay informed.

Know that our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. To that end we will continue to monitor the development of an H1N1 vaccine, and we will continue to keep you updated on further developments.

Sincerely,

Sanford J. Ungar
President