May 5 update to community

From Dean of Student Services Dawn Ellinwood

A student with flu symptoms was evaluated at Health Services on Tuesday, May 5, and was asked as a precaution to remain in isolation until the student is no longer contagious to others.

This is being done as a precautionary measure; there is no confirmation at this point that the student is suffering from H1N1 influenza A. The student was asked to remain in isolation based upon our following of recommendations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (working with the Centers for Disease Control) that advise diagnosing and treating based upon clinical presentation (symptoms and history) rather than lab testing. Because our local area now has three confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza A, all who present with flu symptoms are considered "suspect cases."

Students concerned that they have flu-like symptoms should call Health Services at extension 5458; after 5 p.m. call 577.5000.