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H1N1 virus (swine flu) information

Health / Safety

Public Safety Team monitors spread of H1N1 virus (swine flu)

Updated April 29, 2009

By now, you're probably aware of the national discussion about the recent spread of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) and illnesses in Mexico and the United States. The federal government has issued a public health emergency so that appropriate resources can be accessed if needed. Governor Ritter today also has taken the precautionary measure of requesting Colorado's allotment of antiviral medication from the federal stockpile.

No need for alarm

In the context of these precautions, it is important to note that at this time, no cases of H1N1 virus (swine flu) have been reported or documented in Colorado, and no deaths from this flu have been reported within the United States. Cases in the United States have been reported as mild, however, severe H1N1 virus (swine flu) illnesses and deaths have been reported outside of the country.

The H1N1 virus (swine flu) is not caused by eating pork. All of the cases of swine flu in the United States have been transmitted by human to human contact.

The University’s Public Safety Team is monitoring the situation and keeping abreast of the updates. In addition, the team is reviewing the University’s plan, already in place, for an atypical influenza outbreak. State and federal officials have reassured us that there is no need for alarm.

General precautions 

The Public Safety Team is offering the following reminder regarding some general precautions, as would be recommended during a regular flu season:

• Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
• If you are sick, stay home and visit a doctor if you exhibit flu-like symptoms.
• Avoid others with respiratory illnesses.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.
• Wash your hands after sneezing or coughing.

As a member of the University community, please take responsibility for your own health and the health of others by following these precautions.

Exposure and symptoms

Infectious period for confirmed cases of H1N1 virus (swine flu) is 1 day before onset of illness to 7 days after onset of illness. The symptoms of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) are very similar to seasonal flu symptoms. They symptoms include:

• a fever of greater than 100 degrees
• sore throat
• cough
• stuffy nose
• chills
• headache and body aches
• fatigue

Some people with swine flu also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Like seasonal flu, anyone with underlying chronic medical conditions may be more seriously impacted by the H1N1 virus (swine flu).

International travelers should check travel advisories

Anyone who is planning international travel should check with the U.S. Department of State for the most up-to-date travel advisories.

For more information about the flu, call the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment hotline between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week, at 1-877-462-2911. Please also refer to the Centers for Disease Control website for information, which will be regularly updated, at www.cdc.gov/swineflu. Updated information is also available on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website at www.cdphe.state.co.us.

Student resources

Students living in residence halls may talk with their residence staff who have access to more information from Hartshorn Health Services. Students with any health concern questions, as always, can call Hartshorn staff at (970) 491-7121. Students also can visit Hartshorn Health Services on campus.

The University’s Public Safety Team will continue to monitor the situation, and will inform campus if there are significant concerns or additional precautions advised regarding the H1N1 virus (swine flu).

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Contact: Brad Bohlander
E-mail: Brad.Bohlander@colostate.edu
Phone: