Swine Flu Update as of 04/30/2009
As you may be aware, a public health emergency has been declared due to a recent outbreak of Swine Influenza A (H1N1) affecting several countries around the globe. The confirmed cases in the United States are small. As of April 30, 2009 there are 109 cases confirmed in the U.S., only 14 of which are in California. There are no confirmed cases in Los Angeles County at this time and no confirmed or suspected/probable cases reported here at Santa Monica College.
Santa Monica College is committed to the wellbeing, health and safety of students, faculty, staff and community. College officials are carefully monitoring developments pertaining to this on-going health concern and are in close contact with federal, state and local health officials. All campus activities are currently operational and measures are being taken to inform the College Community about the current public health concern. This site will be updated regularly as new information becomes available and the campus community will be informed by e-mail, and/or telephone should an emergency arise on campus.
Preventing the Spread
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends everyone to take precautions in protecting oneself against a contagious illness like the swine flu. Protect yourself from the swine flu by doing the same things you would do to protect yourself from any other flu. All members of the SMC community are asked to take the following precautions to help avoid contact and transmission of this virus:
- 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 hand sanitizers are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- If you get sick with influenza, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Practice good health habits, including hygiene and nutrition.
More information is available at:
www.cdc.gov/swineflu
www.redcross.org
www.cdph.ca.gov/healthinfo/discond/pages/swineinfluenza.aspx
www.lapublichealth.org
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