H1N1 Update: October 1, 2009

If you have followed the newspapers and/or TV reports, you are aware that the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago are locations where there have been significant numbers of persons infected with the H1N1 flu. Our sister schools have encountered significant numbers of students with the flu. Many of you are aware that we have had several North Park students identified with the H1N1 flu. They have either returned to their homes to recuperate until their symptoms cease or are being cared for on campus in ways that will limit the spread to others. We have been very fortunate on campus to date, and are counting our blessings at present.

We want to encourage your continued practice of preventative actions which protect you and which reduce the spread of the flu virus:

Cover your cough or sneeze – use a tissue and dispose in a trash receptacle
Wash your hands frequently – use disinfectant soap and/or alcohol-based hand gels/wipes

For more information/precautions, please visit the Center for Disease Control website.

Social Responsibility

Each of us is part of a campus community that needs to care for each other. In the case of the H1N1 flu, this means taking responsibility to heed the precautions and protocols set forth by the University. One way we do that is by isolating ourselves from others when we are sick. If you sense the symptoms of the flu (fever >100 deg., sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, chills, headache, fatigue) you should not try to “gut it out” and continue your normal activities. Students should report to health services immediately - don’t wait 4-5 days to report your symptoms. Faculty and staff have been given separate protocols – the most important one: please stay home if you are sick.

Our campus is not immune from the flu virus but we can greatly reduce the spread of sickness to others if we follow a few simple precautions. This is our individual and collective responsibility.

Please visit the North Park web site using the “Quick Links” and clicking on “H1N1 Updates” for further information and updates on campus’ situation/responses.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

The Emergency Management Team