As Ready as Can Be

What is the School of Nursing doing to prepare for H1N1?

School-wide vaccination. All students were offered seasonal flu vaccine and are among the first in line–as healthcare providers–to receive the H1N1 vaccination.

N95 mask fittings. Students and faculty members have been fit-tested for a respirator mask. They now know their size, and have been given one free mask as well.

Prevention education. A new JHU campaign is using flyers, emails, and websites to teach students, faculty, and staff to prevent the spread of the flu. Hopkins students and employees are encouraged to stay home if they are sick, and our faculty are committed to helping students make up clinical hours they miss due to illness.

What if? What if the school is closed due to H1N1? Phone trees, email, and an emergency text alert system are in place to relay messages quickly. Faculty members are prepared to use the internet to continue the didactic portions of their courses, holding class and giving assignments even when all the students and teachers are at home. Staff members are making sure their personal computers are up-to-date with the latest software to enable them to work from home.

Swine Flu Combat Kit
When H1N1 strikes, you don’t want to leave home even for the necessary medical supplies. Prepare for the flu, and stock your home now with these essential items.

Thermometer. If you have flu-like symptoms and a fever (100 degrees or more), stay home.

Over-the-counter flu remedies. They won’t cure you, but they can help you feel a lot better.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). You’ll want it.

Lots of fluids. Drink plenty of water, sports drinks, and soups.

Hand sanitizer and hand soap. Kill the germs.

Tissues. Try some with anti-viral ingredients, such as citric acid.

Surgical masks. Make protecting yourself, or your family members, a fashion statement.

A good book. Entertainment is vital! Alternately, update your Netflix movie queque