Dear University of Minnesota Students, Staff, and Faculty:
A small but increasing number of H1N1 influenza-like illnesses have been reported on the University's campuses, mainly among students. We are continuing to monitor the situation. Information about prevention measures, symptoms, and what to do if you become ill is located on the U's H1N1 Web site.
You may have heard about the recent death of a 20 year-old Cornell University student due to complications from H1N1. We are very saddened by this news. While most people who become infected with H1N1 will not experience life-threatening symptoms, this serves to remind us all how important it is to know when to seek medical care during this unusual flu season.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Although the majority of people with influenza usually recover at home with rest and treatment of symptoms, a few individuals may develop more serious illness and require immediate medical attention.
Call your health care provider or 911 immediately if you are ill with flu and develop any of the following symptoms:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion or change in level of consciousness
Severe or persistent vomiting
Severe sore throat, accompanied by swollen glands in your neck
Flu-like symptoms that improve but then reoccur with fever and worse cough
Fever over 104 degrees that cannot be brought down
Fever of 101 degrees lasting for more than three days
People at Greater Risk for Complications
Certain people have greater risk of serious flu-related complications. They should consult their health care providers now to develop a plan for prevention and treatment should they develop symptoms. In lieu of such a plan, they should consult their health care providers immediately with the onset of flu-like symptoms. Those at greater risk include the following:
Pregnant women
People of any age with chronic medical conditions, including:
asthma
diabetes
blood disorders
weakened immune system
heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease
cancer
neurological disorders
neuromuscular disorders
adults 65 years and older
children younger than five years of age
The University's H1N1 Web site is your resource for current information about the impact of H1N1 on faculty, staff, and students. We encourage you to bookmark it and refer to it frequently.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Brown, Vice President and Chief of Staff, Office of the President; and Officer of the Day
John Finnegan, Assistant Vice President for Public Health and Dean of the School of Public Health
