UPDATED Sept 18, 2009:
April 30, 2009:
Dear SUNY Fredonia Students, Parents, Faculty and Staff,
As many of you are aware, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared a public health emergency regarding the “swine flu” (influenza A H1N1) strain that has infected some individuals in Mexico and the southwestern U.S., in addition several cases in the greater metro New York City area. As many have predicted, some additional suspected cases are now appearing in other parts of the state.
This afternoon (April 30) Chautauqua County health officials confirmed that there is a probable case in the southern portion of the county, an adult and a youth associated with recent travel to Mexico. However, we are told that the individuals in question are nearly fully recovered and there continues to be no suspected cases on the SUNY Fredonia campus.
Our campus’ Environmental Health and Safety Office, Health Center, Police Department and Administration continue to closely monitor the situation, as is the SUNY System Administration Office in Albany, which is in regular contact with various federal, state and local agencies to stay informed of any developments. The New York State Health Commissioner has confirmed that the state has adequate amounts of medicine to treat the flu, if needed, adding that they prepare for a worst-case scenario.
SUNY Fredonia’s Emergency Response Team is equipped with a pandemic flu emergency response plan, which is ready to be implemented if the situation worsens. However, we assure you that there is no immediate threat present within or near the Fredonia campus.
In addition, our Office of International Education is currently reviewing travel plans for our students as well as any visiting students or other guests. At present, no change to any existing plans has been made.
As always, we encourage all of our community members to follow the basics of good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and the use of hand-sanitizing products. We advise anyone with traditional flu-like symptoms (including fever, head and muscle aches, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhea) seek medical attention and avoid the possible spread of germs. We also recommend that people avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth, and that they clean shared spaces such as phones, keyboards, and office equipment, and avoid sharing personal items such as glassware, utensils, and towels.
We will keep you informed of further developments as we learn of them. For more information, including proactive steps to consider, visit the sites of either our campus’ LoGrasso Health Center, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Sincerely,
The SUNY Fredonia Emergency Response Team
