Latest Campus Flu Update

November 13, 2009

Here is the latest update on the current flu situation on campus:

• As of November 12, 198 students reported to the Health Center exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
• This represents 8% of all those visiting the Health Center so far this semester.
• The data shows we peaked in case numbers the week of October 19th when 34 students were seen at the Heath Center with flu-like symptoms. Since then we have averaged about 22 cases a week or four per day.
• The seasonal flu clinic was held October 27th in conjunction with our student nurses and the Student Health Center. 178 students were administered the seasonal flu shot. All available doses were distributed.
• We were not able to administer the H1N1 vaccine at the clinic because we are yet to receive any doses from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
• On October 26, April Scruggs, Director of the Health Center, sent out an e-mail to the entire campus community asking individuals to self-identify according to high risk populations as defined by the CDC. Our protocol established that this group would receive the first H1N1 vaccinations when available. Approximately 80 faculty, staff, and students self-identified and matched the CDC's recommendations for high risk populations.
• Earlier this week, we received 100 doses of inactive vaccinations (shots) and 50 live activated vaccinations (nasal spray) from the VDH.
• Per our established protocol, we will be inoculating the 80 high risk individuals and all other health care personnel on campus, i.e. Health Center personnel, student nurses, and if possible, LCEMS squad members. (Of course, the nasal spray is not recommended for use among the high risk population.) We expect that these doses will barely cover these groups.
• Our hope is to receive additional vaccinations and will be able to offer an open clinic to the entire campus population in the near future. We are awaiting word from the VDH as to when we might expect additional vaccine shipments.
• If the H1N1 vaccination is available while you are at home over Thanksgiving break, get it!

We wish to thank the School of Nursing, our nursing students, and Dr. Sandra Schultze for their assistance in our vaccination clinics. We have much to be thankful for as we approach the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you for your understanding, support, and compassion.

Please go to http://www.flu.gov for the most up to date information. For up to date Lynchburg College Information, please go the College's web page and click on the H1N1 flu planning information button on the front page.

John G. Eccles
Vice President and Dean of Student Development