Is it Influenza or the Dreaded H1N1 Virus?

An epidemic is sweeping across college campuses, not only the University of the Cumberlands, but also at colleges nation wide. More commonly know as the flu, the influenza virus has spread to many of the students here on campus.

Some of these students have been asked to go home in fear that they may spread the virus. Sophomore Hannah Moore was diagnosed with type A influenza, and was asked to vacate the dorms and not return until Friday of this week. Moore said “ I understand that I am a hazard to the campus and my team so it is better for me to stay at home this week.”

Freshman Niclas Rigbrandt said, “I felt really sick, with fever and a sore throat but I didn’t go to the doctor. I feel much better now though” Both of these students have seen the epidemic first hand. Rigbrandt was not diagnosed with the flu, but he believes that he did have the virus.

The H1N1 virus however is a much more serious virus that also has the same basic symptoms as the regular influenza. Known as the Swine Flu, it has caused a greater disease burden for people who are under the age of 25. This age range is very common for students in college and high school. Many students in some of the larger colleges have been sent home due to this virus.

Millsap College located in Jackson, Mississippi, reported 44 cases of the swine flu, and said their numbers were growing daily. The college has yet to close, but if they have many more cases it may be the colleges' only option according to the daily updates on Millsap College’s website, on Sep. 8, 2009

The flu is most often identified with the symptoms of fever, body ache, sneezy and runny nose, cough, tiredness, vomiting, and sore throat. Every year around 36 thousand people die from flu related complications as well as 200 thousand hospitalized according to the CDC.

There are some things that can be done to prevent the spread of both of these viruses. The CDC recommends these things in order to prevent the spread of influenza. First of all it is important to wash your hands with soap and water especially if you have sneezed or coughed, avoiding sick people, and covering your nose and mouth if you cough or sneeze.

Athletic trainer here at the University of the Cumberlands Brina Strebeck said, “ Lysol and hand sanitizer are your best friends.”