Mercy College takes steps to prevent the flu |
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Friday, 30 October 2009 00:00 |
TOLEDO—The State of Ohio is one in 41. But this time, it’s not something that gives our state reason to boast or beam with pride. Being on this list means there’s something in the air: influenza.
According to the most recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), during the week of Oct. 4-10, Ohio was among 41 states reporting widespread influenza activity. It’s a national concern that has just about everyone on edge, especially with the increasing prevalence of the H1N1 virus.
While there’s no way to completely eliminate the spread of either, Mercy College recognizes that there is one significant way to reduce the risk. It’s as simple as “Stop, Wash & Go.”
Starting immediately, Mercy College is requesting that everyone who enters the facilities washes their hands. Automatic hand sanitizer dispensers are available at the entrances and in the corridors while aerosol, waterless, antimicrobial foaming hand rub can be found in the interior areas of the health care college. The dispensers are clearly labeled with distinctive “Stop, Wash & Go” signs.
“Our students are pursuing education to work in health care environments. Frequent and proper hand-washing will be part of their future, and many students are familiar with these products from the time they spend now in hospitals with the clinical component of their education,” said Dr. Anne Loochtan, vice president of academic affairs. “Hand hygiene is the best way to protect yourself and others by minimizing the spread of infection. Even without the threat of a pandemic flu, frequent and thorough hand-washing is a good idea to help prevent the spread of seasonal cold and flu viruses and bacterial diseases.”
The CDC has been closely following influenza outbreaks since mid-April, when the first H1N1 illness was reported in the United States. While anyone can be affected, people under 25 are at the greatest risk, primarily due to the close proximities they keep with each other. The airborne virus spreads through coughing, sneezing and coming into contact with a contaminated surface. Studies show that the virus can survive from two to eight hours afterward so the risk is constant.
There’s even a technique for washing hands. Some recommendations from the CDC include:
• Use soap and warm water.
• Wash for 15-20 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing the alphabet song).
• Use a towel or your arm to open the door to leave the restroom, as germs may have deposited on the handle.
• If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer or gel.
“This is one thing our students and employees can take action on. The hand-washing campaign is part of a larger comprehensive plan that continues to evolve,” Dr. Loochtan said. “Employees and students will be offered both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 vaccines at no charge as soon as the vaccines are available. We are developing plans for various scenarios. Options are being evaluated based upon what best serves our students and employees. Fortunately, to date, we have not experienced wide spread absenteeism among either population.”
Experts say widespread flu activity is unusual for September and October. In addition to frequent hand-washing, being proactive is key to reducing risks:
• Use a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and immediately throw it away.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• If sick, the CDC recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after a fever is gone. The exception would be to get medical care.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Be prepared: have a week’s worth of supplies available in the event you do get sick: over-the-counter-medications, hand sanitizers, tissues and other related items.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 25 November 2009 14:08 |
