H1N1 Information for Parents
Novel Influenza A (H1N1 Virus)
- Worse case scenario is 40% of US population could become affected (400 Randolph College Campus Community before outbreak is over)
- “0” cases at Randolph College to date
- Currently the illness is mild for most individuals
- Virus has potential to mutate and become more serious
- Vaccine expected late Fall 2009 (2 shot series 1 month apart in addition to seasonal flu shot)
Students sick with H1N1 or Influenza Symptoms:
- Encourage student to call the Health Center 947-8130 to report symptoms and schedule an appointment if necessary
- Since the symptoms tend to be mild students may not need to come to Student Health since keeping away from others and self care are recommended for most individuals
- Student must stay in isolation until 24 hours after fever resolves off fever suppressing medications per CDC guidance
- Encourage student to come home to recover if at all possible
- Encourage student to wear a mask if outside of room or around others (Masks can be purchased at local pharmacies)
- Most healthy students do not need antiviral medication (only shortens illness by 1 day)
- If in “high risk” group, call the Health Center 947-8130 after exposure or if sick to assess need of specific antiviral treatment / prevention
- Direct students with severe symptoms to Urgent Care
Warning Signs that Need Urgent Medical Attention:
- 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
Please take care of yourself, follow the same protocol, and prepare and prevent!
Please consult your physician and consider getting both a seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 (Swine Flu vaccines)!
The CDC "Take Three Steps" To fight the Flu 
Informational brochure from the CDC.
Information from CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) August 2009.
