University prepared for Swine Flu

America's obsession with  swine flu may have simmered down, but the immediate threat still remains. As school moves back into the fall semester, students, parents and teachers are still cautious over the life threatening disease.

Unlike the common cold or the seasonal flu, swine flu originates from swine. When it genetically mutates into humans, it has the potential to spread rapidly, because humans have little immunity towards it.

The Associate Director of the University's Health Care Center, Audrey Hoover, explains that the pandemic can easily be contained if students use "respiratory etiquette."

"Pace has done a lot to prepare for the opening of school and the containment of H1N1. Currently the University is in the process of the final pandemic plan. Hand sanitizers are an excellent idea to kill germs in places like the elevators and classrooms. Also the posters are a good way to advocate good sanitary habits," Hoover said.

Last year's outbreak of swine flu created an uproar of fear locally, nationally and globally. Hoover says, "The University is definitely preparing for the upcoming flu season based on the outbreak of H1N1 last spring. It is unsure to say how big the threat of swine flu will be this flu season, but the University is prepared to contain it. Students should check Flu.gov for weekly updates by the state and to track the spread of H1N1."

The University has created a University wide H1N1 task force to tackle possible issues that may have to be faced this year. On the Web site, there is a system to track cases of illness on the campus to take proper action needed. Similar to last year, emails will be sent out in case of an outbreak to alert students.

Many measures are being taken to protect schools and the region of NYC from another possible outbreak of swine flu. Mayor Michael Bloomberg is offering all students free vaccine shots to protect themselves from the deadly flu. The vaccine consists of nasal spray or shot, but will not be available until October or November.  Those who have first priority of the vaccine are health care workers, pregnant women, kids and young adults ages six months to 24 years, people ages 25 to 64 with long-term health problems and people who live with babies younger than six months old.

Although the imminent news rush of swine flu has slowed down temporarily, it is important to take vital precautions. With a few simple tips, you can protect yourself and the people around you. First, wash your hands. Germs and bacteria accumulate on your hands and it can easily spread the virus. If you don't have time to wash your hands, use hand sanitizer. In the University's attempt to stay safe, Purrell dispensers are located around the building and on each floor.

Also, if you think you are sick, take a sick day. Containment is a good way to avoid the spread of germs. "Swine flu is not at scary as it's hyped up to be. Most people have the immunity to fight it. People just need to take care of themselves," sophomore Ashley Lyubinsky said.

If you or a friend is worried about swine flu contact your doctor or the University's health services at 41 Park Row. Just because you do not have swine flu, it doesn't mean that you shouldn't be cautious.

Hoover lists some symptoms that may determine whether you have influenza. These general symptoms are a sore throat, fever over 104 degrees, a cough and other flu related symptoms.

If you are suspected of having the flu, than you will be given a mask and will be contained. "Everyone is worried about swine flu. The hand sanitizer is a good idea, but I feel that although there is Purell, students won't go out of their way to use it, even though they should," freshmen Mike Hill said.