H1N1 Information

H1N1 (previously referred to as "swine flu") is an influenza virus that causes illness in people. This new virus was first detected in the United States in April 2009. When H1N1 was first detected, the University was fortunate to have experts on the subject that came together to provide guidance on how to prevent the spread of the virus (see experts list).

H1N1 Resources

With help from these experts and others on campus, the Infections Disease Emergency Preparedness Planning (IDEPP) Committee developed a comprehensive infectious disease prevention and response plan, as well as, the following protocols for managing pandemics and other infectious diseases:

• Campus Public Event Cancellation Protocol
• Health Assessment Protocols: Students and Employees
• Raul J. Guerra Early Childhood Center Health Assessment Protocol: Child

Preventing the Spread of H1N1

In order to protect the people around you and prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus, you must:

• Practice good personal hygiene.
• Get the seasonal flu vaccine, which now protects against H1N1.
• Stay home if experiencing flu-like symptoms.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Other H1N1 Information

• Cameron County Department of Health and Human Services: H1N1
• Centers for Disease Control: H1N1 Flu & You
• Flu.gov: Know What to Do about the Flu
• World Health Organization: Pandemic (H1N1) 2009