Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
University officials are closely monitoring the spread of swine flu affecting humans that originated in Mexico and is prompting federal and state public health authorities to take precautions.
The University has received no reports of diagnosed cases or symptoms affecting students, faculty or staff - either on or off campus. No cases have been reported in North Carolina. University officials are coordinating with colleagues in the UNC Health Care System and will continue to collaborate as appropriate with local, state and federal authorities.
Our Department of Environment, Health and Safety has updated its Web site today with swine flu information. Refer to http://ehs.unc.edu/ for links to federal public health agencies, lists of symptoms and prevention tips. The site, which will be updated regularly as new information becomes available, also includes the University's travel warning policy and details about the pandemic influenza plan and background information.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that people take the following everyday actions to stay healthy:
- 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
The University is well prepared for this issue. Our pandemic flu planning, which began in 2006, is consistently cited as a model among universities. We will continue to update and refine the plans as new information about this emerging situation with swine flu becomes available.
Sincerely,
University Emergency Warning Committee
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