Novel H1N1 Flu
The University Health Service is open during the fall and spring semesters six days a week, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 6 pm and Saturday 9 am to 11 am. Please note that UHS is closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday through Sunday) and will also be closed Christmas, New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Day, Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day. During the summer and whenclasses are not in session, UHS is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm. Call 323-INFO (4636) to speak with a nurse or 323-APPT (2778) to make an appointment.
As a reminder, all full-time UK students pay a mandatory health fee in the fall and spring semesters that entitles them to most services at University Health Service at no additional cost. Treatment at other locations (i.e., hospital emergency department, urgent treatment center…) are NOT covered by the student health fee.
- What are the symptoms of the Novel H1N1 flu?
- The symptoms are similar to the symptoms seen during the regular seasonal flu and include:
- fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
- cough
- sore throat
- body/muscle aches
- respiratory congestion
- quick onset of symptoms
A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Like seasonal flu, the Novel H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
At present, many health care providers have suspended specific testing protocols for the Novel H1N1 virus and are diagnosing patients with the virus based on the patient's presentation of symptoms alone.
- What can I do to reduce my chances of becoming ill?
-
The primary means of preventing illness is to be inoculated with the Novel H1N1 vaccine. In general, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help maximize your immune system and prevent you from becoming ill. You should strive to:
- Get adequate rest (8 hours of sleep per night)
- Eat a balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Manage stress
Specific actions you should take to prevent influenza include:
- Stay away (at least 6 feet) from someone who is actively coughing or sneezing
- Wash your hands regularly using warm soap and water. If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a suitable substitute (the University encourages you to carry your own personal sized container of hand-sanitizer)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth (especially after coughing or sneezing)
- What should I do if I become ill?
-
According to the CDC, the Novel H1N1 flu virus is similar to that of the seasonal flu. With seasonal flu, studies have shown that people may be contagious from one day before they develop symptoms up to 7 days after they get sick. The following measures are suggested by the CDC:
- Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
UK suggests that each student have a flu kit that contains the following items:
- Digital thermometer
- Tissues
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or Naproxen (Aleve) for pain and fever (not aspirin)
- Cough medicine containing dextromethorphane Guaifenesin (examples: Robitussin DM, Delsym, Mucinex DM)
- Decongestant for stuffy nose (use only if no history of stroke, insomnia, high blood pressure)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sanitary wipes with bleach
- Sports drink, soup mix, bottled water
Students who live on campus and have flu related illnesses should self-isolate (i.e., stay away from others) in their residence hall room or apartment while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (their fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine) except to get medical care or for other necessities.
UK suggests that each student have a plan for alternate living accommodations while ill. Given that students are expected to self-isolate while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, many may find it more comfortable to return home for that time period.
- If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated.
- Wear a facemask - if tolerable - when sharing common spaces with others. Currently, facemasks are available from University Health Service and your Residence Hall front desk.
- Avoid close contact with others - do not go to work or school while ill
- If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
- Students may choose to seek medical attention on campus at the University Health Center or any one of a number of other medical clinics in the area.
- Will UHS keep students overnight if they are ill?
- No, UHS is not an overnight infirmary.
- What if I am too ill to get to UHS?
- First try and get a friend or family member to transport you. Call a taxi and have them bring you.
- What if UHS doesn't have any appointments available?
- Please call 323-INFO (4636) to speak with the triage nurse. That person can assist you with other resources and provide the next available appointment for you.
- Does UHS have real doctors?
- Yes, University Health has 65 staff including:
- 10 physicians
- 6 Nurse Practitioners
- 11 Nurses
- 2 health educators and a dietician
Many of the physicians are board certified in areas such as Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Women's Health, Psychiatry, Occupational Medicine, Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics. In addition, the nurse practitioners have certifications in areas such as family medicine, women's health and psychiatry.
- What are the recommendations for the amount of time persons with flu-like illness should be away from others?
- CDC recommends that people with influenza-like illness remain at home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
- If an influenza outbreak occurs at UK, what assistance will be available to help me cope with its impact emotionally?
- UK provides resources to help students cope with these types of life events through its Counseling and Testing Center. Students may call 257-8701 during business hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday. For resource and referral information after hours, please call 457-0022.
On-campus Living
In anticipation of flu related illnesses associated with the Novel H1N1 virus among students and visitors to the University of Kentucky and in anticipation of the regular flu season this year, UK has prepared the following information to help residents understand the current circumstances and educate you on steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection.
University Housing is in constant communication with University officials and medical personnel as we monitor the developing situation involving flu related illnesses affecting our campus community. Should circumstances warrant a modification in our response to protect our students and campus community, University Housing staff will mobilize to make any necessary adjustments to meet the evolving needs associated with this developing situation.
- What should students do if they become ill?
- According to the CDC, the Novel H1N1 flu virusis similar to that of the seasonal flu. With seasonal flu, studies have shown that people may be contagious from one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. The following measures are suggested by the CDC:
- Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
UK suggests that each student have a flu kit that contains the following items:
- Digital thermometer
- Tissues
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or Naproxen (Aleve) for pain and fever (not aspirin)
- Cough medicine containing dextromethorphane Guaifenesin (examples: Robitussin DM, Delsym, Mucinex DM)
- Decongestant for stuffy nose (use only if no history of stroke, insomnia, high blood pressure)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sanitary wipes with bleach
- Sports drink, soup mix, bottled water
- Students who live on campus and have flu related illnesses should self-isolate (i.e., stay away from others) in their residence hall room or apartment while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (their fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine) except to get medical care or for other necessities.
UK suggests that each student have a plan for alternate living accommodations while ill. Given that students are expected to self-isolate while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, many may find it more comfortable to return home for that time period.
- If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated.
- Wear a facemask - if tolerable - when sharing common spaces with others. Currently, facemasks are available from University Health Service and your Residence Hall front desk.
- Avoid close contact with others - do not go to work or school while ill
- If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
- Students may choose to seek medical attention on campus at the University Health Center or any one of a number of other medical clinics in the area.
- What should students do if their roommate/suitemate/apartment mate/family member(s) becomes ill?
- According to the CDC website, "[Roommates/suitemates/apartment mates/family members] who are well but who have an ill [roommate/suitemate/apartment mate/family member] at home with Novel H1N1 flu can go [about their daily business as] usual. These [otherwise well individuals] should monitor their health every day, and take everyday precautions including washing their hands often with soap and water, especially after they cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective." It is also strongly suggested that otherwise well individuals remain at least 6 feet away from the sick roommate/suitemate/apartment mate at all times.
- Does University Housing quarantine ill students in a particular area on campus?
- Quarantining sick individuals is not a recommended response in our current situation. Residence hall students with flu related illnesses are being advised by medical personnel to self-isolate in their rooms or apartments while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine) except to get medical care or for other necessities. Self-isolation means limiting movement to the student's immediate living quarters and bathroom or apartment area unless venturing out of the hall/apartment to seek medical care.
- Are students required to leave campus if they become ill?
- The University of Kentucky does not require students to leave campus if they develop flu related symptoms or illnesses but we do highly recommend it. Given that students are expected to self-isolate while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine), many students may find it more comfortable to return home for that time period to continue their recovery off campus. If a student chooses to leave campus to recover at home, they are strongly discouraged from utilizing public transportation to travel home. Whenever possible, students wishing to return home to recover should travel by private vehicle.
- If ill students must self-isolate and are unable to leave campus, how will they access the common restrooms and/or dining facilities?
- The CDC suggests that University students designate a "flu buddy." This person is someone that can check on them if they get sick, including dropping off needed supplies and food. The UK Dining Office is able to provide meals to the student's on-campus room if they are unable to visit dining facilities due to Novel H1N1. Details on how to access this service are under the "Meal Delivery" tab. If the student must leave his/her room to access a common restroom or receive medical care, he/she should wear a facemask. Each Residence Hall has a supply of masks and they will be provided to ill students as needed.
- What cleaning products should students use to sanitize their living space?
- According to the CDC website: "To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label. Several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time." Additional cleaning circumstances to consider include the following:
- Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.
- Wash linens (such as bed sheets and towels) by using household laundry soap and tumble dry on a hot setting. Avoid "hugging" dirty laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating yourself. Clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub right after handling dirty laundry.
- Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.
- According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), some suggested products to use for cleaning and sanitizing include the following:
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Foam Power Heavy Duty Bathroom Cleaner
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Direct Multi-Purpose Cleaner
- Lysol Brand Pre-Moistened Touch-Ups Disinfecting Cleaning Wipes
- Lysol Brand Foaming Disinfectant Basin Tub & Tile Cleaner II
- Lysol Brand disinfectant Trigger Spray
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Basin, Tub, & Tile Cleaner Pre-Moistened Wipe
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Multi-Purpose Cleaner
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Pine Scent Basin Tub & Tile Cleaner
- Lysol Brand Deodorizing Disinfectant Cleaner
- Lysol Brand Disinfectant Bleach Plus
- Lysol Brand Hard Water Stain Cleaner
- Comet Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner
- Mr. Clean Multi-Surfaces Antibacterial
- Ultra Mr. Clean
- Windex Antibacterial Glass & Surface Cleaner
- Tough Act The Heavy Duty Bathroom Cleaner
- Clorox
- Fresh Scent Clorox
- Pine Sol Household Cleaner Disinfectant
- Pine-Sol Spray
- Ultra Clorox Brand Regular Bleach
- Ultra Clorox Brand Fresh Scent Bleach
- Ultra Clorox Brand 6.15% Bleach 30 Soluble Concentrate Clorox Company
- Clorox Disinfecting Spray III
- Ultra Clorox Bleach Formula
Personal Preparedness
The University of Kentucky encourages all persons to have a personal preparedness plan in the event of any emergency. A variety of resources are available to assist you with this, including:
If you become ill with Novel H1N1, the
CDC recommends the following
- Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
UK suggests that each student have a flu kit that contains the following items:
- Digital thermometer
- Tissues
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or Naproxen (Aleve) for pain and fever (not aspirin)
- Cough medicine containing dextromethorphane Guaifenesin (examples: Robitussin DM, Delsym, Mucinex DM)
- Decongestant for stuffy nose (use only if no history of stroke, insomnia, high blood pressure)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sanitary wipes with bleach
- Sports drink, soup mix, bottled water
Students who live on campus and have flu related illnesses should self-isolate (i.e., stay away from others) in their residence hall room or apartment while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (their fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine) except to get medical care or for other necessities. CDC recommends that students establish a "flu buddy" system to assist with care if needed.
UK suggests that each student have a plan for alternate living accommodations while ill. Given that students are expected to self-isolate while they are ill and for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, many may find it more comfortable to return home for that time period.
- If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated.
- Wear a facemask - if available and tolerable - when sharing common spaces with others.
- Avoid close contact with others - do not go to work or school while ill
- If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
- Students may choose to seek medical attention on campus at the University Health Center or any one of a number of other medical clinics in the area.
Meal Delivery for Students Living on Campus during Isolation
While you are in isolation in your room, you may request to have meals delivered if you have a dining plan. Delivered meals will be a pre-determined menu based upon University Health Services recommendations for clear liquids and/or foods best tolerated with flu-like symptoms (please see isolation menu [XLS]). Your meal from this menu will be delivered to your door during the next scheduled delivery time (see below) after your call is received. A meal will be deducted from your balance. You may also pay with Flex Dollars or your Plus Account.
We ask that when you call, be ready to provide: your name, hall, room number, and Student ID number.
Phone Order Numbers and Hours:
Monday - Friday, 6:00 am to 5:00 pm, call 257-6161
Saturday, noon to 5:00 pm, call 257-6185
Sunday, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, call 257-9482
These numbers are for the Dining Services Administrative Office. Your order will then be prepared and delivered from a dining facility near your residence hall. Please note the smaller window in which to order on the weekends. You may pre-order weekend meals during the week.
Delivery Points:
Blazer Café: North Campus (Holmes, Jewell, Keeneland, Blazer, New North, and Wildcat Lodge)
Commons Market: South Campus (Blanding I, Blanding II, Blanding III, Blanding IV, Blanding Tower, Kirwan I, Kirwan II, Kirwan III, Kirwan IV, Kirwan Tower, Ingles Hall, Smith Hall, and Baldwin Hall)
K-Lair Grill: Central Campus (Donovan and Haggin Halls)
Delivery Times:
Breakfast - 7:30 am to 8:30 am
Lunch - 11:30 am to 12:30 am
Dinner - 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with these procedures which are intended to best meet the needs of our residents. Get Well Soon!
Please note: this service is based on staff and resource availability and therefore, may be discontinued at any time with no prior notice.
