Hendrix Community,

As you may have heard, the swine flu that originated in Mexico has spread to the United States, and quite possibly will continue spreading.  There have been no confirmed cases in Arkansas. States where cases have been confirmed include:  California, Texas, Kansas, Ohio and New York.                 

Even though there are no known cases of swine flu at Hendrix, it is imperative that the community make every effort to avoid getting sick or transmitting an illness.  The following are Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for preventing the flu.

1. Avoid close contact. Keep your distance (4-5 feet) from anyone who is ill.

2. Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you do not have a tissue, use the crook of your elbow.

3. Hand washing: Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after coughing and sneezing.

4. Do not share drinks or utensils.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth -- the most common areas where germs spread.

6. If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others. The flu is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

If you are running a fever over 100 degrees and exhibiting signs of flu, please seek medical attention.  Tamiflu is available by prescription.  If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Health Center (450-1448) or your personal physician.

Also, during this time the CDC recommends re-scheduling travel plans to areas with outbreaks.  Before traveling, review the CDC’s advisory.  Another great source for information is the National Swine Flu Situation page. 

Please keep informed on this public health situation.  You can obtain further information at the CDC and World Health Organization Web sites.

If you have questions specificially about Swine Flu, this article may be of assistance.