Saint Joseph’s University is actively monitoring the swine influenza (H1N1) cases in Mexico and other countries, including the U.S and Canada. We are working closely with local and state health officials to share information and prepare for the possibility that the outbreak may affect our community directly. We have actively engaged our Emergency Preparedness Plan regarding a potential influenza outbreak.

Swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza. Symptoms of swine flu are similar to seasonal influenza and include fever greater than 100 degrees, body aches, coughing, sore throat, respiratory congestion, and in some cases diarrhea and vomiting.

Any students who have recently traveled to an affected area or were exposed to someone with swine flu, and are experiencing symptoms of flu, should come to the Student Health Center located on the first floor of Sourin Hall (610-660-1175) to be evaluated or contact their family physician immediately.  Faculty and staff should seek care at their local health care provider.

While any case of flu is serious, here is what the CDC advises to stay healthy:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. Avoid close contact with sick people. Avoid sharing food or drinks with other people. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. For up-to-the-minute information about influenza, please see: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm http://www.pandemicflu.gov/ http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html

For additional health updates and information about SJU's preparedness, please visit:

Student Health Services Emergency Preparedness Plan