Weekly Influenza UpdateOctober 23, 2009

TO: The Gustavus Community
FROM: The Gustavus Pandemic Advisory Committee

Greetings,

You may have noticed heightened media attention to the H1N1 influenza pandemic in the past week, with particular attention to severe cases. While there is potential for H1N1 to lead to serious complications and/or secondary infections, the majority of H1N1 cases continue to be mild. As influenza-like illness, including H1N1, continues its global and local course, the Center for Disease Control’s existing prevention and treatment guidelines still apply.

Influenza-like illness outbreaks continue to remain elevated statewide according to the Minnesota Department of Health. Meanwhile, at Gustavus, the past week actually saw a decrease in the pace of Influenza-like (ILI) cases with a total of 35 new cases reported.

Please note that over fall break, Gustavus Health Service and the Influenza Satellite Clinic will be closed. For those remaining on campus during fall break, we recommend the following local healthcare resources:

  • River’s Edge Hospital ER or Urgent Care – 1900 N. Sunrise Drive – 507-931-2200
  • Daniels Health Center (by appointment) – 1901 N. Old Minnesota – 507-934-2325
  • St. Peter Clinic (by appointment) – 1900 N. Sunrise Drive – 507-931-2110

Launched this week by the Minnesota Department of Health are two new helpful influenza hotlines. If you are experiencing ILI symptoms you can call the Minnesota FluLine at 1-866-259-4655. For general questions and information about influenza, please call the Minnesota Department of Health Flu Information Line at 1-800-657-3903.

Health Service conducted a seasonal flu clinic for students earlier this month, and many took advantage of this service. However, due to the demand on manufacturers for H1N1 vaccine, Health Service will not be receiving any more seasonal flu vaccine. Students are encouraged to look for available seasonal flu vaccine at clinics and pharmacies. Fall break would be a great time to do this!

Health Service does anticipate receiving the H1N1 vaccine for students. More details will follow as the H1N1 vaccine is distributed throughout Minnesota. It is important to continue to stay informed about the H1N1 vaccine as it is made available.

Have a wonderful fall break!

Sincerely,

Pandemic Advisory Committee Co-Chairs
Heather Dale, Director of Health Service and
Ray Thrower, Director of Campus Safety