H1N1 Update: March 4, 2010

University Park, Pa. -- University Health Services (UHS) has seen several confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza within the past two weeks. It is clear that H1N1 still is present on the University Park campus. Seasonal flu typically increases at this time of year as well.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the infection, followed by good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. It also is important to stay out of circulation and away from others while ill with influenza-like illness.

For students who are traveling for spring break, it is important to know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report sporadic flu activity throughout the United States. The CDC says, "It's possible that the United States could experience another wave of flu activity caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal influenza."

H1N1 vaccination is free and available to all Penn State students at University Park through UHS. Appointments are available by calling the appointment line at 814-863-0774.

A number of H1N1-related resources are available on the UHS Web site at http://www.sa.psu.edu/uhs online. The CDC provides information that can help students make informed decisions about vaccination at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm and http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/public/vaccination_qa_pub.htm online.