Message to Students from the Director of Student Health and Counseling
October 21, 2009
Students,
The campus has received confirmation that Art Professor Wayne Knight’s death earlier this morning was due to complications brought on by H1N1 (swine) flu. His death is a terrible loss for our campus community. It is also an important reminder of the need to take H1N1 seriously.
This past week the Student Health Center has seen a significant increase in the number of students who are ill with H1N1 flu. Nationwide and locally, most people suffer from a few days of illness and recover uneventfully.
However, some individuals have become quite ill with pneumonia following their initial illness.
This disease, which is mostly mild, can affect some individuals rapidly and severely. It is important that seriously ill people seek treatment promptly.
1. If you have flu symptoms and would like advice, call the Student Health Center at 826-3146 or the after hours Nurse Response line at (866) 724-5057. You will speak with medical personnel who will tell you if you need to be examined or will give you advice if not. Symptoms include:
- fever (though not everyone gets a fever with this flu)
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- body aches
- headache
- chills
- fatigue
- sometimes diarrhea and vomiting
2. If you have flu symptoms and an underlying health condition, call your doctor, the Student Health Center, or see a medical provider early in the illness to be assessed for possible anti-viral medication. It is important to start medications early. Underlying conditions could include:
- Pregnancy
- Cancer
- Blood disorders (including sickle cell disease)
- Chronic lung disease [including asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)]
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Kidney disorders
- Liver disorders
- Neurological disorders (including nervous system, brain or spinal cord)
- Neuromuscular disorders (including muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis)
- Weakened immune systems (including people with AIDS)
3. If your symptoms are not improving in 3-4 days, or if at any time they suddenly worsen, or if you have any warning signs listed below, seek medical care immediately:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
For current news and information about H1N1, visit http://www.humboldt.edu/flu. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. (Alternate 24/7 number for University Police is 826-5023).
Also, counseling is available for students who need support in dealing with the loss of Professor Knight. Contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 826-3236.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Stauffer, MD
Director, Student Health and Counseling