Influenza Update
As news of the current outbreak of H1N1 unfolds, the Mines Student Health Center continues to monitor pandemic influenza developments, as well as the seasonal flu situation. We are in contact with Jefferson County Public Health Department and receive weekly updates from the Centers for Disease Control.
If You Are Experiencing Flu-Like Symptoms, Stay Home
Based on recommendations from the CDC, the Health Center has adopted the following guidelines in regard to influenza-like illnesses:
- Persons with fever of 100.0F or greater and upper respiratory symptoms should self-isolate in their residence hall room or home until 24 hours after their fever has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications.
- Certain individuals with chronic health problems may be candidates for antiviral medications and therefore should contact the Health Center or their health care provider to discuss this option.
- If students with flu-like symptoms wish to obtain an excused absence, they must obtain a doctor’s verification of the absence as per existing student absence policies or must notify the University and their instructors of absences through the Mines self-reporting system in order to insure that absences are excused.
- If you are a residence hall resident please consider returning to your permanent home if possible to recuperate.
- Read the Mines Flu FAQ for more answers to common flu-related questions.
- Review the university absenteeism policy (see page 27)
Flu Symptoms
Symptoms of seasonal influenza and H1N1 (swine) flu include fever (usually high), headache, fatigue, body aches, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and occasionally stomach symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of H1N1 flu in most cases are similar to, and no worse than, those caused by typical seasonal flu.
In certain instances, the symptoms above may occur in conjunction with other symptoms. This can be indicative of a more severe illness that may require medical attention. Seek care if you experience:
- Bluish or grayish skin color
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Confusion
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath
- Dehydration
Prevention
Remember these important actions that we can take every day to remain healthy:
- Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve when you sneeze or cough
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol based cleanser
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people
- Stay home and away from work or school if you are sick
- Get a flu vaccine
Flu on Campus
Colorado School of Mines has a plan in place designed to minimize the risk of transmission of flu to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Proactive measures have been taken to identify and treat influenza and influenza-like illness, and plans are in development for H1N1 vaccination clinics on campus, in order to provide vaccinations once the vaccine becomes available.
Additional Information
Additional information concerning the H1N1 (swine) flu can be found at:
- CDC's H1N1 information page
- CDC Guidance: Taking care of a sick person with H1N1
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control Travel Advisories
- State of Colorado H1N1 Information
FLU INFORMATION FOR FACULTY & STAFF
- UPDATE: Flu prevention in labs & classrooms
- Guidelines and Procedures for Employees
- Flu Information Resources
Forms:
Health Center Hours
1225 17th Street, Golden, CO 80401
(303) 273-3381
FAX (303) 273-3623
shc@is.mines.edu
Hours (Walk-in):
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 12 p.m.,
1 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
After Hours
Call New West Physicians at (303) 278-4600
Dental Clinic (by appointment only):
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:00-noon, 1:00-4:30