Rob Weber

With the H1N1 virus predicted to have an estimated infection rate of 30 percent on campus, Mary-Beth Cooper, vice president for Student Affairs, chose to a hold a forum to address student concerns. Roughly 60 people were in attendance, most of whom were faculty and staff. Cooper discussed the reasons behind the need for education on the current status of the H1N1 flu. She mentioned that, in the past predictions for epidemics have been accurate about 60 percent of the time and therefore, warrant caution.

“Technically we’re prepared for the epidemic to start today,” stated Dr. Edward Walsh, chief of Infectious Diseases at Rochester General Hospital and professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center. He confirmed that younger people and those with existing health issues have the highest risk and will be most vulnerable to the virus’ effects. Walsh also mentioned that those born before 1957 are likely to be immune to the virus.

Rob Weber

John Zink, assistant vice president for Global Risk Management Services, stressed that H1N1 is no more serious than the seasonal flu, but people should still practice good hygiene and respiratory etiquette. The symptoms connected with the virus include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue.

Dr. Brooke Durland, RIT’s Medical Director, encourages students to sleep well, eat well, and use common sense when participating in recreational activities to minimize their chances of contracting the flu. If the epidemic affects you, self-isolation is encouraged. The institute is willing to do what they can to help you recover. Dining Services is willing to help students with a meal plan by delivering food to their rooms. Facilities Management Services is willing to assist in making sure that infected students’ trash gets thrown out regularly. Also, if the other roommate(s) are at high risk, they may be relocated.

At the time of writing, there have been no reported cases of the H1N1 flu on campus.