H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Q&A with CSUEB Student Health Services

  • May 1, 2009


Q. Do we have any CSUEB students with H1N1 influenza, or swine flu?


There have been no documented cases of H1N1 influenza (swine flu) on the California State University, East Bay campuses as of this date.

Q. What is CSUEB doing in response?


California State University, East Bay is following the situation carefully with the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and will maintain regular contact with local and regional Departments of Public Health. CSUEB has a pandemic plan in place and is prepared to respond in the event of a positive case/cases of swine flu on campus.

The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is our highest priority.  It is important that each of us take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection.  Individuals who are sick should stay home and consult with their health care provider.

Q. What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu?


The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to those caused by the usual strains of influenza virus and include fever over 100 degrees orally, plus other symptoms such as:

  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Cough
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • And rarely, stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

If you are suffering from these symptoms, stay home.  Students should call Student Health Services at (510) 885-3735 for an evaluation and instructions on how to care for yourself and reduce spreading the infection to others. Faculty and staff should contact their healthcare provider. For further information about swine flu, see .

Q. What should I do if I get sick?


If you are sick, stay home.  Students should call Student Health Services at (510) 885-3735 for an evaluation and instructions on how to care for yourself and reduce spreading the infection to others. Faculty and staff should contact their healthcare providers.
In addition:

  • Persons who experience flu-like symptoms (fever with either cough or sore throat) and wish to seek medical care should first contact their health care provider to discuss their illness before seeking care. Persons who have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath or are believed to be severely ill should seek immediate medical attention.
  • Students staying home due to illness should contact professors via e-mail or phone to notify them of the absence and to make arrangements for missed class assignments.

For further information about swine flu, see .

Q. What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?


There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. Students, faculty and staff should take every day precautions to minimize the spread of germs. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Q. Should I wear a mask?

It is not currently recommended the general public wear facemasks. It is recommended that people who are sick with flu symptoms wear a facemask around others. Whenever possible, rather than relying on the use of facemasks, people should avoid close contact with people who might be ill and being in crowded settings.
 
Q. Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?


No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get H1N1 influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
 
Q. How is CSUEB keeping the campus informed?


CSUEB has been providing updates to faculty, staff, and students via e-mail and .

For additional information:


  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed a fact sheet on swine flu:

  • The California State Department of Health Services provides regular updates on swine flu:
  • The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel alert for Mexico:

  • International travelers are advised to consult www.cdc.gov/travel for updated recommendations.

If you have any questions, you may contact the Student Health Services at shs@csueastbay.edu or (510) 885-3735.