H1N1 PreventionSt. Ambrose University has taken several actions to prepare for any cases of H1N1 on campus. University officials are closely monitoring information provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Scott County Public Health department. Students, faculty and staff have been provided with several reminders about good health practices to minimize the spread of this, or any contagious disease.
Students will be informed of flu clinics as they become available and information on the H1N1 vaccine will be distributed when it becomes available from the CDC.
Students have also been informed that any concerns about missed classes or project deadlines may be resolved by contacting their instructor(s) and that reasonable accommodations will be made to make up missed assignments or exams.
Because public health recommendations are subject to change, continue to watch for H1N1 information with updates.The Office of Health Services is available to answer questions Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and is located on the second floor of the Rogalski Center. You may also contact the office by phone at 563/333-6424 or by email at healthservices@sau.edu. For medical attention during the evening hours or on weekends:
Genesis FastTrack, West Campus
10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
1351 West Central Park Avenue
Davenport, Iowa
563/421-1100 phone
Genesis FastTrack, East Campus
4 p.m.-11 p.m. daily
1230 East Rusholme Street
Davenport, Iowa
563/421-6610 phone
Genesis Convenient Care
7 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
1520 West 53rd Street
Davenport, Iowa
563/421-3800 phone
Davenport Clinic
1820 West Third Street
Davenport, Iowa
563/326-1661 phone
What is the H1N1 or "Swine" Flu?
The H1N1 Flu is a new influenza virus, first detected in the United States in April 2009. H1N1 is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that a pandemic of H1N1 flu was underway.
How do I know if I have contracted the H1N1 Flu?
The symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus, similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu, include:
How is H1N1 Influenza spread?
H1N1 flu is thought to be spread the same way as seasonal flu. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Some people become infected by touching something with the flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. People are considered contagious one day before they develop symptoms and up to 7 days after.
What can I do to stay healthy?
First and most importantly: Wash your hands.
Some viruses like H1N1 can live on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks for many hours.Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus.
Frequent handwashing will help reduce the chance of contracting the virus. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a good alternative when traditional handwashing isn't possible. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
What should I do if I get sick?
In compliance with public health recommendations St. Ambrose strongly urges any students with flu-like symptoms to follow the CDC's self-isolation guidelines and return home until the possibility of spreading the virus has passed. This means at least 24 hours after you are fever-free (below 100 degrees Fahrenheit without the use of fever-reducing medications). Those of you who cannot return home are asked to inform your RA or Health Services and remain in your dorm rooms. The university will take all possible measures to provide for your safety and comfort.
Prepare ahead, have a thermometer, a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand sanitizers and tissues available. Rest Cough or sneeze into your elbow, arm, or shoulder. Throw tissues in the trash after use, do not keep used tissues in a pocket or purse. Always wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.
Unless it is necessary for you to receive medical care, avoid contact with others and do not go to work or school until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours or longer.
If you have flu symptoms and need assistance, you may reach the Office of Health Services by calling 563-333-6423, or by email.
If you have any of the following symptoms seek medical attention immediately:
Will the campus close down if someone is diagnosed?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not advise school closure for a suspected or confirmed case of H1N1 unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school's ability to function.
