The H1N1 virus is still around and continues to be a major health threat, especially during the upcoming flu season. What is it?

H1N1 is a virus that is spread by person to person contact. Its symptoms are similar to the flu: fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills; sometimes nausea and diarrhea.

What can you do? Best prevention methods are hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol based sanitizers, using a tissue when coughing and sneezing and throwing it away immediately and avoid contact with others who are ill. If you become ill, see your personal physician or visit the Student Health Center for diagnosis and treatment, if needed. As with any flu, it is advisable to stay away from others to prevent spreading illness - it is recommended that you stay home for atleast 24 hours after your fever has subsided.