E-mail this pageThings to Remember
This section contains key points about H1N1 and how to protect yourself.
What should I do if I get sick?
The CDC recommends that people with flu-like illness remain at home and away from other people until at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm, have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medications (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
If you exhibit flu-like symptoms, you should isolate yourself from other individuals on the campus per CDC guidelines. The best way to minimize the spread of the H1N1 flu and its impact on our community is to leave campus for a recommended period of time. This recommended isolation time will vary from individual to individual based upon the symptoms, but will most likely be between four and seven days.
It is recommended that you return home via private vehicle, instead of public transportation, if possible.
What if I have no tissues?
If no tissue is readily available, cough or sneeze in the cuff of your elbow.
How close should I be to others if I am sick?
If you are sick avoid close contact. At a minimum, stay at least 6 feet apart from others.
Why I should wash my hands?
According to the CDC, hand washing is one of the most important means of preventing the spread of disease. Washing your hands correctly greatly reduces the chances of spreading germs. Disease-causing germs can enter your body when your unwashed hands touch your nose, mouth, and open wounds.
When should I wash my hands?
Hands should be washed whenever they become contaminated, such as after:
- Coughing, sneezing.
- Touching contaminated surfaces.
- Using the restroom.
- Changing diapers.
- Handling garbage.
- Handling uncooked foods.
- Touching animals and pets.
- Tending to someone who is sick.
Hands should also be washed before:
- Preparing or eating food.
- Treating a cut or tending to a wound.
- Tending to someone who is sick.
Could I use hand lotion after washing?
Using hand lotion after washing help keeps the hands from drying out and cracking. Keeping the skin elastic and intact reduces the chance of germs entering your body.
What are some mistakes I should avoid regarding hand washing?
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Use soap and friction when washing your hands.
- Don’t touch contaminated surfaces after washing your hands. Use disposable towels to turn off faucets and open doors.
- Don’t use a single damp cloth to wash a group of hands.
- Don’t use a standing basin of water to rinse hands.
- Don’t use a common hand towel. Use disposable towels whenever possible.
Contact Information
For more information about SUNY Plattsburgh's response to the H1N1 (Swine) Flu, please contact:
Center for Student Health & Psychological Services
State University of New York at Plattsburgh
101 Broad Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Telephone
- Student Health: (518) 564-2187
- Psychological Services: (518) 564-3086
- Emergency Services: Call 911 or University Police 564-2022
- Toll-free: (866) 858-4089
Fax:
- Health (518) 564-2188
- Psychological Services (518) 564-2376
E-mail: healthcenter@plattsburgh.edu