H1N1 Update: October 22

October 22, 2009

Each Thursday the College provides an updated snapshot of the situation involving students exhibiting flu-like symptoms.

Since the start of the semester, 194 students have come forward with such symptoms. Of these, 188 have recovered and returned to classes.

At this point, six students are in isolation on campus, either in College-provided spaces or in single rooms.

H1N1 Vaccine Update

A delay in the delivery of H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines ordered by the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has led to the postponement of school-based vaccine programs including the one planned for the College.

Maine CDC Director Dr. Dora Mills says the delay is being caused by a bottleneck in the vaccine manufacturing process due to the nationwide demand for the H1N1 flu vaccine.

The College is registered as a vaccine provider to facilitate delivery of the vaccine once it's available.

In the meantime, high-risk students (those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma) are being inoculated with the seasonal flu vaccine — a practice that will expand as the College's vaccine supply allows.

Reducing Risk

The Centers for Disease Control recommends the following steps to reduce your risk of becoming infected:

  • Cover coughs and sneezes with sleeve or elbow
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
  • Wash hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing

For More Information

The College maintains a Web site that provides extensive information about the H1N1 virus, a link to Bowdoin's Epidemic Response Plan, and archived advisories for students and their families, faculty, staff and families with children at the Bowdoin College Children's Center.

Additional information is also available at these sites:

Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


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