A new Flu Central Web page has been launched at California State University, Fresno as part of a campus-wide effort to provide information about prevention and treatment of the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu virus.

The Web page can be accessed through a link prominently displayed on www.csufresno.edu or www.fresnostatenews.com. It will be updated regularly with new information and links to other Web pages.

Other efforts this fall include distribution of 5,000 prevention fliers to faculty and staff and bulletin boards throughout the campus, a flu shot clinic for students on Sept. 23 and production of cold and flu packs with information and over-the-counter treatment and prevention products.

Joyce Harris, director of Health and Psychological Services at Fresno State, said health officials anticipate a challenging 2009-10 flu season – for both the regular seasonal flu and Novel H1N1 (swine flu) virus.

“Since classes started, we are seeing increased numbers of students each week who have flu symptoms,” said Harris. The number coming into the Student Health Center to date this academic year is 40. The cases have been mild and lasting only a few days, she said.

“The symptoms for both seasonal and H1N1 are similar, and because testing for H1N1 is not routinely done or recommended by the CDC and our Public Health Department, we can’t say for certain which they have. The treatment we advise for any flu-like symptoms is to stay home and keep away from other people as much as possible. Take medications for symptom relief as needed such as fever-reducing medications (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen) and stay home for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever,” Harris said. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers 18 years and younger.

To ease cold or flu symptoms, the Student Health Center has “Cold and Flu Packs” available for $5 for students. They include acetaminophen (comparable to Tylenol), a thermometer, an expectorant to relieve chest congestion, a nasal decongestant, cough drops, hand sanitizer and tissues.

To help the prevention efforts, hand sanitizer is being distributed to each classroom. Offices that frequently host meetings also are being given a supply, said David Moll, assistant vice president for Risk Management and Sustainability.

“Say No 2 Flu” fliers being distributed on campus ask everyone to wash their hands regularly, cover their coughs and dispose of tissues. Office workers are encouraged to wipe down shared equipment on a regular basis.

The Sept. 23 flu shot clinic will provide low-cost shots ($10) to Fresno State students from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the University Student Union lower floor. Fresno State nursing students will conduct the clinic under the supervision of faculty members.

Faculty and staff are urged to see their health care providers for seasonal flu vaccinations.

As the H1N1 vaccination becomes available, Fresno State will partner with Fresno County Public Health Department to provide the vaccination to those in the highest risk groups.

Students who want more information about flu treatment may call the Student Health Center at 559.278.2734 or check online at http://www.csufresno.edu/health/.

Related link:

FSN Flu Central