Florida International University Parent Guide
5 Cs of Flu Prevention
The novel H1N1 virus is a giant puzzle. Although every day we learn a little more about this virus, there are still many missing pieces. By now, most people are aware that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the world was the midst of a novel H1N1 pandemic. When people hear the word pandemic their anxiety levels escalate and they begin to panic. Primarily because we are not accustomed to hearing the word, and are not entirely clear on its meaning. However, it is important to clarify that a pandemic does not define the severity of an illness caused by a virus, only how widespread the virus is at a specific moment in time.
At this time, the novel H1N1 virus continues to spread. Within the United States, most people who became ill from the virus recovered without requiring medical treatment. Those who are most at risk of acquiring the virus are young children under two years of age, older adults over 65 years of age, individuals who have a chronic condition and are susceptible to diseases, or people with lung problems such as asthmatics.
FIU University Health services (UHS) is developing programs and acquiring materials that will be helpful in keeping our students and university community healthy. During the Fall 2009 Semester UHS will be offering the annual flu shot for students, faculty and staff. As of now, it is unclear if a vaccine for the novel H1N1 virus will be available for fall. However, people can reduce their level of risk by practicing simple basic healthy behaviors and following the 5 C’s:
By following the 5 C’s you become an advocate for prevention. UHS encourages everyone to educate others on these simple guidelines to stay healthy and well, as they are currently the best way to protect ourselves. Please rest assured that university officials are actively monitoring the situation and are working closely with local health officials to protect the health of the university community. For further information please visit:
FIU University Health Services
Center for Disease Control
Florida Department of Health
