To the H1N1 (Swine Flu) FEAR Mongers

Just received this official e-mail from Michigan State University . . .

Notice how it says that the CDC does NOT believe H1N1 is more dangerous
than a regular flu, and notice how they are no longer testing
for cases of it.

As I said before, NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT, and further indication
that there is NO “conspiracy” to force people to take vaccines.

In other words, relax. 🙂

S

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Dr. Elizabeth Alexander – University Physician to MSU

date Thu, Sep 24, 2009 at 2:21 PM
subject Latest H1N1 information for MSU community

H1N1 is a pandemic flu that has spread across the world, country, state and Ingham County. At this time, MSU health officials are not seeing any unusual patterns of sickness. H1N1 is generally a mild respiratory illness that is treated symptomatically the same way as seasonal flu. At this point, officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not believe H1N1 is any more dangerous for most people than seasonal flu.

It is impossible to say for certain how many cases of H1N1 might be in the community since the CDC and state public health officials are no longer routinely testing or counting cases. Also, the rapid-screening flu test provided by some health care providers is at best about 50 percent accurate. Additionally, the rapid test can tell someone only if they have type-A influenza, of which H1N1 is one of several strains.

For most people who do contract H1N1, the treatment is the same as with any respiratory illnesses: drinking fluids, resting, taking Tylenol (or other drugs such as ibuprofen) for aches and fever and staying home. Anti-viral medications are not recommended for the majority of people who have H1N1 but reserved only for those who are at high risk of complications from influenza, including those with serious chronic disease.

The most important things members of the MSU community can do are practice good hygiene and remain calm. Be vigilant about protecting your health by washing hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze; covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze; and avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

If you become ill with a flu-like illness that includes fever, worsening cough or respiratory symptoms, along with body aches, contact the Olin Student Health Center or your health care professional. For the most up-to-date information, please visit MSU’s H1N1 site at http://special.news.msu.edu/h1n1/. To listen to a podcast with Dean Sienko, medical director for Ingham County, visit http://spartanpodcast.com/?p=542.

Dr. Beth Alexander
MSU University Physician