In the interest of public health and safety, Mt. San Jacinto College is notifying employees and students that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has determined that a public health emergency involving H1N1 Flu exists nationwide.

As of 4:27 p.m. Monday, April 27, 2009 the District is not aware of any confirmed cases of H1N1 Flu in Riverside County. However, college officials have been urged by Riverside County health officials to take all precautions necessary to help prevent the possible spread of H1N1 Flu.

Riverside County health officials and the Centers for Disease Control advise individuals with flu-like symptoms, which include fever, coughing, vomiting and sneezing, to stay at home and isolate themselves for seven (7) days and to limit contact with other individuals.

To help avoid infection, follow these prevention tips provided by the Centers for Disease Control:

• Frequently wash hands using soap and warm water.
• Carry hand sanitizer (60 percent or higher alcohol content) and use often.
• Avoid persons who exhibit symptoms of coughing, sneezing and runny nose.
• Stay at home if you feel ill and have flu symptoms.
• Cover your face when coughing or sneezing by using a napkin or rag and toss it away immediately and wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, face, mouth or nose with your hands.
• Isolate yourself at home for 7 days upon onset of symptoms.

We will continue to monitor this situation and keep the college community advised of developments.

The following link to the Centers for Disease Control can be a valuable resource: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/