University of St. Thomas H1N1 (or Influenza-Like-Illness) Report for Sept. 16, 2009

By Madonna McDermott, director, Student Health Service & Wellness Center

The incidence of H1N1 (or Influenza-Like-Illness) at the University of St. Thomas during the second week of the semester continues to rise as expected with gradually increasing numbers of students developing this illness. 
A total of 32 cases of H1N1 have been reported with most students having fully recovered and returned to classes.  Thirty percent of these cases occurred in students residing in residence halls and the remaining cases in students commuting from off-campus housing.
There currently is no strong pattern or clusters of cases to report; however, we continue to be vigilant in assessing for this type of activity. A weekly update will be published on St. Thomas' Pandemic Web site every Wednesday. Any rapid increase or cluster of activity will be shared more immediately with the community via Bulletin Today or a Bulletin Update e-mail.
We continue to work closely with local, state and national health departments in monitoring this epidemic and will share pertinent information in these weekly updates.

Watch for H1N1 clinic dates

The H1N1 vaccination is expected to be available in mid-October.
The St. Thomas H1N1 flu clinic dates will be posted on both the Pandemic Web site and Student Health Service Web site when vaccine becomes available. 
Students who need urgent medical advice may contact the Student Health Service at (651) 962-6750.  Students with high-risk medical conditions should call the Student Health Service or another health-care provider promptly if they become ill with H1N1 or Influenza-Like-Illness symptoms.

Seasonal flu clinics start Friday

The seasonal influenza clinics will begin this week in an attempt to complete these flu clinics prior to the mid-October release of the H1N1 vaccine.
The seasonal flu clinics will begin Friday, Sept. 18, for all St. Thomas students, faculty and staff.  Dates and times are listed on the right. This flu shot will not protect individuals from H1N1 influenza; however, it will decrease an individual’s chance of contracting seasonal influenza.
The cost of the shot is $20.  Students may bill their student accounts.