A Message to Parents from Chancellor Hinshaw
May 11, 2009
Dear Parents:
Aloha! We are committed to keeping you informed about what is happening at UH Mānoa, so we want you to have the following information which was shared with the campus on May 8.
A student living in a UH Mānoa residence hall has tested positive for H1N1 flu (swine flu). The student reported to the University Health Services Mānoa on Wednesday, May 6, with flu-like symptoms, and the test was today confirmed by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health. The student is recovering from what appears to be a mild illness.
Other students and staff members who have been in close contact with the student are being notified and will be evaluated. The affected areas of the Hale Wainani residence hall are being disinfected. The student and two roommates, one of whom is displaying symptoms of the illness, are being isolated in separate rooms.
We're urging anyone who shows signs of flu-like illness to contact the University Health Services. Symptoms of H1N1 virus include sudden fever, coughing, sore throat, body aches and pains, and fatigue.
As everyone is aware, influenza is a current concern in Hawaiʻi, so all of us should follow good infection control practices, including avoiding others if you are sick with flu symptoms. That will help reduce the spread of the virus.
Health officials continue to stress the importance of following the recommended public health guidelines: cover your cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and do not come to work or school if you are sick.
There are currently no changes to University operations or activities, and the campus is operating normally. Classes ended on Wednesday, May 6, and final examinations are continuing through Friday, May 15.
For updated information, check the UH Mānoa website or our campus hotline recording at 808-956-0001.
If you have any questions or comments, please send us feedback.
Mahalo,
Virginia S. Hinshaw
Chancellor
vhinshaw@hawaii.edu