October 27, 2009
To the LBCC Campus Community:
I write to update you on the College's interventions regarding the H1N1 flu virus (previously known as swine flu).
For years, LBCC has had emergency plans in place to address wide-ranging campus issues and health concerns. We have extended these preparedness efforts in order to respond to the H1N1 pandemic. Our District emergency response team has been collaborating with the Long Beach Health Department, the local hospitals, and educational partners at CSULB and LBUSD to ensure an appropriate response to both the seasonal and the H1N1 flu.
"Novel H1N1" pandemic flu is widespread throughout the world. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases are mild and, at this point, the H1N1 virus appears no more virulent or severe than most seasonal flus. This strain does seem to be more frequent in children and young adults because those who are younger than 50 years of age have not yet had contact with a similar type of this virus.
Cases of H1N1 have already appeared on most college campuses. We expect to see more cases this fall, consistent with what is happening in public communities. We strongly encourage all members of the LBCC campus community to take the standard precautions adopted during the flu season -- and to play an active role in our public health prevention efforts.
Classes and Activities
In general, it will not be necessary to close school or cancel classes. The emergency response team will monitor the campus situation, working with the Long Beach Health Dept., and make recommendations regarding changes in campus activities on the basis of any flu outbreak. As Superintendent-President, I will make any decisions regarding the cancellation of classes or alteration to campus activities. Any such decision will be communicated broadly to faculty, students and staff through the LBCC website (www.lbcc.edu) and other communications.
Public Health Precautions
It is important for all faculty, staff, and students to take the following flu/respiratory disease precautions:
- Avoid contact with ill persons
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Throw used tissues in the trash
- Do not share food, drink, or utensils
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently -- particularly after you sneeze -- or use an alcohol-based hand gel
Treatment and Response
Faculty, staff, and students who are ill with the flu should remain at home for 24 hours after they are fever-free (and without medication that would lower temperature). A mild, lingering cough may occur. Barring any other flu symptoms, this cough should not prevent students from returning to class.
If you have been in contact with someone who has the flu, onset of the virus can take up to three days. If you experience any flu symptoms within this time period, please stay home to limit the spread of the virus. If you are pregnant or if you have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, cancer, asthma, heart or lung problems, or a weakened immune system, you should consult with your physician.
The following vaccinations are expected to be available in the near future:
- Seasonal Flu Vaccine:
- Novel H1N1 Vaccine:
Recent recommendations from the CDC have placed individuals under age 24 in the top priority group for receiving the H1N1 vaccine. More information will be available in the coming weeks regarding how and when this vaccine will be given.
Additional Information
More information on the H1N1 flu is available on the following websites:
Please refer to our Long Beach City College website to keep current on any H1N1 information directly involving our students and campuses.
Sincerely,
Eloy Ortiz Oakley
Superintendent-President
Long Beach Community College District
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