How will you spend your Thanksgiving break?
In an H1N1 outbreak at Washington State University recently, nearly 2,500 students experienced flu-like symptoms and 169 tested positive for the virus.
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So some NYU students wonder: Will NYU's efforts to fight the virus be enough?
The NYU Student Health Center has issued a campuswide health alert, urging students to take many precautions including using hand sanitizer, washing hands with soap and water frequently, and covering coughs with sleeves or handkerchiefs.
SHC Executive Director Dr. Henry Chung recommends students to wash their hands after touching surfaces such as phones and ATMs. "Germs can live on these surfaces for up to 48 hours or longer if students become ill with flu symptoms," he said.
NYU has yet to report any positive cases of H1N1.
"We do expect this number to increase, and it is important that we do everything possible to minimize unnecessary spread of flu by following all our tips on prevention and vaccinations," Chung said.
Many students are taking action themselves to fight the disease.
Recent Columbia graduate Justin Kamen founded Students Prep America, an organization with a mission to spread awareness about H1N1. Kamen and his team are spreading information via Facebook, Twitter feeds, e-mails and flyers.
Kamen said complacency is a large issue SPA is trying to resolve.
"This is impacted by the media's claims that H1N1 is as mild as the seasonal flu, which is a huge disservice to the American people [as] not enough people are informed, and students need to become more proactive to protect themselves."
SPA encourages students to have a preparation kit handy in their dorms, which should include a three-day supply of food, first-aid kit, bottled water, cash, cell phone charger and surgical masks.
"The issue is there is a lot we don't know about swine flu," Kamen said. "We know it spreads quickly. We know it affects children and young adults disproportionately. For these reasons, we advocate facing the issue with vigilance."
He added: "Students should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. And the worst could be quite bad for America's students."
If you're experiencing flu-like symptoms or just have questions, don't hesitate to visit the SHC at 726 Broadway or call the Wellness Exchange at 212.443.9999 for 24/7 assistance.
For more information about SPA: studentsprepamerica.org
For more information about H1N1: cdc.gov/h1n1flu
