H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Information

Where to Get Information About H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

At this time, the best source of current information is the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has established a dedicated hotline for H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)  information.  To reach the hotline simply dial "211".

Updated information specific to Massachusetts cases and health advisories can  be found on the DPH web site.

Click here to view updated information specific to Massachusetts from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
 

If you have symptoms of the H1N1 Flu , or think that you may have been exposed to the H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) :

Anyone who is experiencing a fever (100 degrees +) AND a cough or sore throat or body aches should seek medical attention.

Please stay home if you are ill and contact your primary care provider.  Students with the UMass Boston student health plan should contact  UHS.

If you are a STUDENT  ON CAMPUS and ARE concerned that you may have symptoms of the H1N1 Flu, or that you  have been exposed to the H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) , please go directly to UHS for evaluation. 

If you are OFF CAMPUS please contact your primary care provider.  Please see advisory at the top of the page for students who are diagnosed or suspected of having H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)   by an off campus medical provider.
 

Commonsense recommendations for preventing transmission of colds, flu and other infectious diseases:

• Keep immune systems strong with regular exercise, vitamin-rich foods, sufficient sleep and plenty of fluids.
   

• Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
   

• Avoid sharing eating utensils, water bottles, towels or bedding without first washing these items with soap and hot water.
   

• Clean surfaces soiled with body fluids with a household disinfectant. (Use gloves while cleaning.)
   

• Cover your cough (cough into your sleeve at the elbow).
   

• Stay away from work or classes when sick with a fever or actively coughing.
   

• More suggestions at the CDC web site
   

What should students do to avoid flu in general?

Student Health 101 Special H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Issue

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can cause mild to severe symptoms including fever, headache, extreme fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, also can occur. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes.

Flu viruses spread in respiratory droplets caused by coughing and sneezing. They usually spread from person to person, though sometimes people become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five days after becoming sick.