Message Regarding Potential for Swine Flu Outbreak

Given the start of fall classes and the return of thousands of students and faculty to campus, I would like to take an opportunity to update you on the novel H1N1 influenza (swine flu) and its potential impact on campus operations

In July, the Arkansas Department of Health confirmed 100 cases of H1N1 through laboratory tests, but suspected the actual number of cases to be closer to 1,000. There have been sporadic outbreaks in summer camps throughout the state and nation.

As a result, we expect to see cases of H1N1 on our campus as students and faculty come in from around the country and the world. The medical staff at the Pat Walker Health Center remains in close communication with the Arkansas Department of Health, as well as with university housing staff and the office of the chancellor. In the even of an outbreak, we will follow guidelines from Arkansas Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, we are proactively involved in pandemic planning and developing contingency plans prior to any possible outbreak to avoid disruption to our campus community and minimize any impacts.

Health professionals are encouraging all students, faculty and staff to employ handwashing and sanitizing to minimize the possibility of spreading the virus. Additionally, anyone considered to be in a high-risk category is advised to get the vaccine for the virus when it becomes available.

If you come down with a fever, you are advised to stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever breaks. The university asks that faculty members put as many class materials as possible on-line to facilitate the continuity of classes

Check the Pat Walker Health Center's web site at http://health.uark.edu/ for information and updates on H1N1, and the CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/sick for more information on what you and your family should know about the virus.