Ed: This page will be updated whenever there is new information about the H1N1 virus. The most recent updates will always appear at the top of the page.

[Letter, July 13, 2009] [Letter, July 2, 2009]

Letter to RISD Community | July 13, 2009

As indicated in our previous communication [07.02.09 - see below], the H1N1 virus has appeared on campus, and we have established protocols in an effort to contain its spread.

According to federal and state health officials, H1N1 flu has, to date, been similar to regular seasonal flu, relatively mild, and responsive to treatment.  Their primary focus has therefore been to urge individuals to take normal precautions, to monitor reports of illness, and to encourage appropriate steps to mitigate the further spread of illness when and where it occurs.  We have been consulting regularly with the Rhode Island Department of Health and following its recommendations in this regard, and will continue to do so.

In order to help prevent further spread at RISD, we provided the affected students separate living space, away from other students, during the recovery period; regularly monitored their condition; made arrangements for their meals, laundry, and necessary supplies; and worked with their faculty to enable them to continue their academic work.  We will continue to make appropriate arrangements for any other students who may experience H1N1 symptoms.

You can assist in this effort by continuing to follow the Centers for Disease Control recommendations:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.  If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you have just washed your hands.
• If you experience any flu-like symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue – seek prompt medical attention.
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick. Any time missed from class to address these concerns will be counted as a legitimate and excused absence.

We continue to monitor the situation and will continue to post any further updates on this page.

Sincerely,
Raj Bellani
Associate Provost for Student Affairs

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Letter to RISD Community | July 2, 2009

We are writing to let you know that RISD has had its first confirmed case of H1N1 flu, involving a summer student. The student reported symptoms to Health Services soon after arrival on campus, was isolated from other students and did not attend classes, was treated, and has fully recovered. The three people who had significant direct contact with the student have not shown any symptoms themselves, but have also been treated with Tamiflu as a precaution. Throughout this process, we worked closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health and followed its guidance. At this time, we are not aware of any other cases on campus.

Nevertheless, because the H1N1 virus continues to circulate in Rhode Island (and around the world), we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to continue to take appropriate preventive steps. In accordance with Centers for Disease Control guidance, we recommend that you:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel.
* Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you have just washed your hands.
* Stay home from work or school if you are sick.

In addition, if you experience any flu-like symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue – seek prompt medical attention. Students may contact Health Services, and any time missed from class to address these concerns will be counted as a legitimate and excused absence. Being proactive in seeking assistance should greatly diminish the severity and length of illness and help prevent its further spread.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact or see the following:

RISD Health Services
Homer Hall (The Quad)
401.454.6625

Monday thru Friday: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 12 noon

Rhode Island Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control

Finally, please be assured that we will continue to monitor the situation and will post any updates as necessary on this page.

Sincerely,
Raj Bellani
Associate Provost for Student Affairs