CSUSM Influenza (Flu) Update

To: CSUSM Campus Community

Re: 2013/14 Influenza (Flu) activity

According to the County of San Diego Public Health Services, Influenza activity is widespread in San Diego County and within California. There has been an increase in the number of locally reported cases over the first three (3) weeks of the year.

There are many instances of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the county. Student Health and Counseling Services has also seen several students with ILI. ILI is defined as an illness with a fever ≥100⁰F or 37.8⁰C plus cough and/or sore throat. To stay healthy through this season, we encourage the campus community to follow the recommendations below:

If you’ve not already done so, please get the seasonal influenza vaccine. This vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, unless there is a contraindication determined by a medical provider.

Please know that SHCS has distributed all of our vaccine supply. Other locations for vaccine: 1) your primary care provider through your health insurance; 2) Costco – $14.99 per injection, membership is not required; 3) CVS Pharmacy – $ 31.99; 4) Ralphs Pharmacy – $ 25.00; 5) San Diego County Public Health Centers – $10, [for locations, see this link: http://www.sdiz.org/Community/Features/Flu-2013-2014-clinics.html].
Avoid contact with ill persons.
Use good respiratory etiquette: When you cough and sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve (if you do not have a tissue). Throw used tissues in trash can.
Use good hand hygiene: After you cough or sneeze, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, which is available in various locations on campus.
Clean surfaces that are touched routinely: such as desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, any hands-on learning objects, faucet handles, and phones, using general cleaning products made for these surfaces, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stay home if you think you are ill with the flu/influenza. Avoid close contact with others as much as possible. Do not go to work, school, or travel while ill. You should remain home until at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever reducing medication.
Seek medical care if you are severely ill.

SHCS will continue to monitor advisories from the County Health Department regarding changes in the influenza activity. We will send updates to the campus accordingly. If you have any questions or concerns, please call SHCS at 760/750-4915.