H1N1 Information
H1N1 (also known as “swine flu”) is a new influenza virus that was first detected in the U.S. in April 2009. The virus spreads person-to-person much the same as regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. It most frequently affects teens and young adults, particularly those between the ages of fourteen and twenty-five. Because the virus is relatively new, most people have no immunity against it. However, most people who have become ill with it have recovered without requiring medical treatment.
UPDATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2009
On November 4th we received an initial allotment of 100 doses of H1N1 vaccine. It was designated for health care workers and high risk students, including moderate-severe asthmatics, diabetics and students with other chronic illnesses. That number alone totals over 175 people. Those doses will soon be used up. The most recent word from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is that the next allotment will be delivered early to mid-December. Further information will be posted to this site and student news as it becomes available.
Vaccine for seasonal influenza is not available at this time at the
Health Center. We are currently on a waiting list to receive an
additional supply, but there is no guarantee. We will update this site as well as student news if/when more vaccine arrives.
The spread of this virus can be avoided by:
- Frequent hand-washing
- Coughing into the sleeve, not the hand
- Using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available
- Avoiding close contact with others, especially those who are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends isolation for up to 24 hours following the cessation of symptoms after the patient stops taking medication; average estimate is 5–7 days away from work or classes, but 10–14 days have not been uncommon.
How Gordon is Responding:
- Gordon has kept the community informed of any news or updates through email. We have an emergency response system in place that allows the College to reach members of its community through phone, text, email and the web very quickly.
- The College has provided touchless hand sanitation dispensers in every building on campus.
- Approximately 1500 surgical masks have been purchased for staff and students.
- N95 filters have been provided for the Medical Response Team’s use, as well as sanitizing wipes for the officers to use in their cruisers in the event that they are called upon to transport students to or from the Health Center.
On November 4th we received an initial allotment of 100 doses of H1N1 vaccine. It was designated for health care workers and high risk students, including moderate-severe asthmatics, diabetics and students with other chronic illnesses. That number alone totals over 175 people. Those doses will soon be used up. The most recent word from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is that the next allotment will be delivered early to mid-December. Further information will be posted to this site and student news as it becomes available.
Vaccine for seasonal influenza is not available at this time at the Health Center. We are currently on a waiting list to receive an additional supply, but there is no guarantee. We will update this site as well as student news if/when more vaccine arrives.
- Resident directors and advisors are being trained on what course of action to take if someone in their care becomes ill.
Call the Health Center at 978.867.4300 first to discuss the symptoms. It is likely that you will not need to be seen unless you are severely ill. Keep away from others as much as possible and contact your RA or RD to obtain food or fluids if necessary.
Further Resources:
For the most up-to-date information on H1N1 as it develops refer to the following links:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Other resources on the flu and H1N1: