H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Information

Public health officials within the United States and around the world are investigating outbreaks of the H1N1 influenza virus, formerly known as swine flu. The outbreak is ongoing and additional cases are expected. Eastern Illinois University will continue to monitor the CDC recommendations and update the campus as needed. Please become familiar with H1N1 flu symptoms and precautions. Additionally, fliers have been posted, to be individually printed for campus and classroom distribution.

Rumor Regarding Possible Closure Addressed

There is no truth to the rumors that the Eastern Illinois University campus will close due to H1N1. All classes and activities are being held as scheduled, and commencement plans are proceeding as usual. 

As of Nov. 11, there had been approximately 400 confirmed cases of H1N1 among EIU students, meaning about 3% of the student body has had the virus. Because most people with H1N1 are sick for about a week, the percentage of students affected at any given time has been minimal. While the number of students affected is significant and continues to rise, it is not large enough to consider closing the campus, said Dr. Sheila Baker, Medical Director of EIU Health Service.

 

Links available:

 

Most Recent H1N1 Updates

The most recent updates provided by Dr. Sheila Baker, EIU Health Service Medical Director.

Click here for the H1N1 Updates archive.

 

H1N1 Vaccine Clinics

Eligibility restrictions have been lifted

Restrictions on the H1N1 vaccine have been lifted. People six months of age or older can now receive the vaccine. Supplies are still limited throughout the state but Eastern Illinois University currently has 600 doses and will administer the vaccine free of charge to anyone ten years of age or older. People may receive the vaccine at Health Service, M-F 8am-5pm.without an appointment.  Students, faculty, staff, annuitants and friends of the university are welcome.

In the News

Below are the latest articles from the Daily Eastern News and the Charleston Times-Courier/Mattoon Gazette about H1N1. For older articles, please click here.

Vaccine restrictions lifted for public - DEN 12/14/2009

1,000 vaccine doses available - DEN 11/13/09

1,300 doses remain for clinics - DEN 11/11/09

H1N1 flu vaccine ready to be used - DEN 11/10/09

Still waiting on H1N1 vaccine - DEN 11/5/09

Taking proper health precautions - DEN 10/23/09

H1N1 vaccine coming soon - DEN 10/14/09

Infected on campus students given option to relocate - DEN 10/2/09

Flu "explodes" on EIU campus after Homecoming - CTC/MG 10/29/09

Other area schools see moderate increase in their number of illness-related absences - CTC/MG 10/28/09

 

Campus Posters and Fliers

Download fliers, hand washing signs, 3Cs, information about symptoms, flu buddies, apartment living and more here. Resources are updated often, so check back frequently.

 

H1N1 Influenza Self Assessment

Click here to take the H1N1 self assessment quiz if you are displaying any symptoms.

 

Other Resources

Below are links to other resources and information about H1N1.

 

Illinois Flu Hotline