May 6, 2009

As you are probably aware, the number of cases of H1N1 flu across the world and in the U.S. continues to increase. Most cases are mild and individuals are recovering. According to the Orange County Health Care Agency Web site, there are two confirmed and 10 potential cases in the OC. In fact, a UCI student who lives off campus is a probable case (pending confirmation by the health department), but is recovering well.

You can protect your health, and that of our community, by taking simple precautionary measures, such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water, and using a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. For more safety tips, visit the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/#stay_healthy.

If you show signs of the H1N1 flu – fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing – stay home, notify your supervisor that you have developed symptoms, and contact your primary care provider for possible testing and treatment. Do not report to the emergency room of your local hospital unless you need emergency treatment for symptoms such as breathing difficulties, uncontrollable fever and dehydration.

If you are ill, or have a family member with this flu, you may be entitled to sick leave and other leaves, depending on applicable university policies and collective bargaining agreements. Contact your departmental HR representative or the campus HR department at 949-824-5210 for details.

Thank you for doing your part to minimize the spread of the H1N1 flu. For more information, visit http://www.uci.edu/swineflu/.

Wendell Brase
Vice Chancellor
Administrative & Business Services