<p>To: The Brandeis Student Community</p>
<p>From: Rick Sawyer, VP for Student Affairs and Dean of Student Life </p>
<p>Campus Flu Status Update - October 16, 2009 </p>
<p>As of noon today, we have reached 113 Influenza Like Illness cases since the start of the semester. Currently there are five students under care. Four are undergraduates. One is a graduate student who lives off campus.</p>
<p>This past week has been the slowest one to date in terms of new cases. For two days this past week we had no students under care. While we were all pleased with that news, no one really thought that we were done. This flu is not a bullet that we have dodged, it is more like a boomerang that will return.</p>
<p>Please do not think that because the number of active flu cases has quieted that we can stand down. In fact, when the H1N1 vaccine arrives, it is important that we all take advantage of availability. We are still awaiting word for the date of our first shipment of H1N1 vaccine. The first batch will be prioritized. We also expect to receive additional supplies of seasonal flu vaccine. The Health Center will announce additional vaccine clinics when ready.</p>
<p>Next weekend is Fall Fest. We will have hundreds of family visitors on campus for a long weekend. Please assist in controlling the potential for the spread of illness brought from off campus. If someone in your visiting family is ill with flu like symptoms, please be thoughtful about what measures you and they should take. If a sibling is planning on staying in your room - be alert to the possibility of an active flu case on your floor, and be alert to any sickness your sibling or family might be exhibiting. A great weekend is planned, and we have no intention of making a fuss out of the flu concerns. But some appropriate care and awareness would be a good thing. And, if your family is going to be visiting, ask them to bring a thermometer. If you already have one, someone else in your residence living area might need one.</p>
<p>Now that the colder weather has arrived, community members will be spending more time indoors. This has some marginal possibility for increase in the environmental spread of illness. Continued diligence with hand washing, sneezing, coughing and such must be followed.</p>
<p>In talking with colleagues at other schools, I continue to be very happy with the way we are all handling this challenge. Most schools of our size have had higher levels of flu cases, though for the most part their strategies have been similar to ours.</p>
<p>Thanks once again for your cooperation and your efforts. I know it is mid semester and the academic stresses have been mounting. While your attention will naturally turn more towards your work, please maintain the care required to stay healthy. And continue to be observant of the good health of those around you.</p>
<p>Have a good weekend.</p>