Update on H1N1 Flu

July 14, 2009

The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment on Tuesday evening informed the University of Northern Colorado that tests for five individuals involved in a summer youth program on campus have been confirmed as H1N1 (swine flu) cases.

The Summer Enrichment Program ended a week early Sunday, as recommended by the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment, after 14 participants and staff were evaluated for influenza. They were experiencing symptoms consistent with seasonal influenza: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. According to the health department, symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to seasonal influenza. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the H1N1 influenza.

"We are reassured that we have not seen any severe illness in these cases and everyone is recovering as expected," said Dr. Mark Wallace, executive director of the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment.

Campus dining rooms, residence halls and academic buildings, where participants had come in contact, along with high-traffic areas have and will continue to be disinfected. Other camps and events on campus will continue to go on as planned.

The county health department and the Centers for Disease Control recommend taking these everyday steps to protect your health:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and always dispose of tissues after using them.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Stay at home if you are sick and avoid contact with other people as much as possible. You can be contagious up to seven days after onset of symptoms.
  • Practice other good health habits such as getting plenty of rest, exercising, drinking enough water and eating nutritious foods.

For more information on H1N1 flu, visit the CDC Q&A on H1N1 or contact the CoHELP toll-free hotline at 1-877-462-2911.

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