Do your part to prevent influenza
The flu season is upon us and WWU health officials are working to provide the best possible information and support.
The Centers for Disease Control says the dominant strain is H1N1, otherwise known as swine flu. Influenza can be serious and flu-related deaths have occurred in this state and across the country.
We are asking our campus community to take a few common-sense preventative measures:
- Doctors urge everyone over 6 months of age to get the vaccination, adding that the vaccination can reduce the chances of getting the virus by 50 to 70 percent. Seasonal flu vaccine is available to WWU students at the Student Health Center. The health center does not offer flu shots to faculty and staff. You can get a flu shot from your primary care provider`s office, or for information on where you can receive flu shots at other places in the community CLICK HERE. The flu shot cost is generally reimbursable by insurance. Check with your insurer to know for sure.
- Faculty and staff with flu-like illness should remain home so as not to spread sickness on campus.
- WWU employees with flu symptoms and with other medical problems such as diabetes, asthma or other chronic conditions should contact their physician without delay.
- So that students will not try to attend class while ill with H1N1, faculty members are encouraged to make accommodation for class absences and/or missed work.
- Washing hands often will help protect you from germs.
For more information please see these websites:
Thank you for your time and best wishes for a great New Year.
Kunle Ojikutu
Assistant Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services / Special Assistant to the President for Diversity