This past spring, the Northern Hemisphere witnessed the emergence of a novel H1N1 influenza A virus, and as a result of its spread on a worldwide basis the World Health Organization has declared a pandemic. H1N1 has been present in much of the United States during the summer, and we fully expect to see this virus become more prevalent in the weeks and months to come.

The symptoms associated with this illness include fever, runny nose, body aches, cough, fatigue, and sometimes nausea and/or diarrhea. Fortunately, the severity of this virus remains on a par the influenza viruses we normally see during the late winter and fall. Most people who become ill recover without treatment. Individuals who are pregnant, those under 5 years of age or over 50 years of age, and those with underlying chronic medical conditions (including asthma) appear to be at higher risks of complications from this infection.

Members of the University's Emergency Operations Center has continued its work in monitoring this pandemic and ensuring that the campus is well prepared to deal with the impact of H1N1, and academic and administrative units have been asked to prepare plans for the possibility that we may see a high rate of absenteeism among staff. Although a number of us may experience inconvenience as a result of illness in ourselves or a friend/family member, we do not at this point foresee the likelihood of a large-scale disruption of our activities or routines.

There are simple, effective ways to lessen the likelihood that you will become ill this fall. These include:

Getting vaccinated. It is quite possible that we will have a vaccine targeted against H1N1 in October. Beyond this, it is important to receive the "regular" vaccine for seasonal influenza. Vaccination is especially important for those with underlying medical conditions.

Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze. Dispose of the tissue and wash your hands immediately. If you don't have a tissue, sneeze into your sleeve instead of your hand.

Washing your hands often. Use a hand sanitizer (which you may want to carry with you) or wash for 30 seconds with soap and water.

Avoiding contact between your hands and your face. Viruses spread easily through this hand to face contact.

Staying informed. We will be updating you as important information becomes available. Please visit the University's pandemic website (www.uvm.edu/emergency) often. It has timely information about our situations and links to other helpful resources.

In order to minimize spread of the virus throughout our community, please stay in your room or at home if you become ill for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away. Students may be in contact with the Center for Health and Wellbeing (656-3350) for advice and care, and faculty and staff should be in touch with their own health providers.