By David Hamby
Tulsa, OK – Two students from The University of Tulsa have been diagnosed with type A influenza. The cases, which are believed to be unrelated, were reported to TU officials Friday after the students visited the on-campus Alexander Health Clinic. In keeping with TU's health emergency plans, the students have been isolated at campus residences until the flu symptoms have passed.
The state health department will not be testing the student samples for the H1N1 virus. State health officials have asked local health workers to treat all Type A cases as if they were the H1N1 virus, which is an variant of the Type A flu.
The signs and symptoms of this flu virus are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Anyone who is feeling ill with these symptoms should seek medical attention. TU students and employees may visit the Alexander Health Center (M-F, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) for medical treatment and referrals. For health needs outside of the clinic's hours, students and employees are urged to visit one of the local emergency health clinics.
Since the arrival of H1N1 in the United States earlier this year, TU officials have implemented plans to address its potential impact on students, employees and campus operations.
TU officials encourage the campus community to follow some simple precautions in order to reduce chances of becoming ill:
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Eat well and get adequate sleep.
A vaccine is currently being developed for the seasonal flu. The seasonal flu vaccine is expected to be distributed in October or November, with federal health officials determining what organizations will receive the vaccines.
For more information about the influenza virus, visit the Center for Disease Control web site at www.cdc.gov/flu.