The university confirms cases

More cases of swine flu have been confirmed at Kent State.

“In terms of H1N1, it is widespread,” said Emily Vincent, director of University Media Relations. “The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has declared the state is one of the states that has widespread cases H1N1. We know it’s here. We’ve been preparing for it.”

Vincent said there is no way to track exactly how many students have swine flu because of students not seeking treatment, going home or seeking treatment from places other than DeWeese Health Center.

After three confirmed cases of swine flu among students who live off campus, University Health Services followed the CDC’s suggestion to no longer test specifically for the H1N1 virus. Instead, they assume if the person tests positive for type A flu, which is most common, it is the H1N1 virus.

The first case of swine flu at Kent State was confirmed Sept. 30.

Since then, the university has continued to emphasize the need to practice good hygiene such as washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and using hand sanitizer where available on campus.

The CDC encourages those who are already sick to stay home and seek medical attention.

In response to the swine flu breakout, Kent State employees have organized a “wellness response to H1N1” team.

The group was started to help students cope with stress or anxiety they may feel is related to swine flu and issues around it. The group will have a table set up from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow in the Student Center. They will be available to talk to students and provide information about dealing with stress.

Health services is also offering seasonal flu shots and expects to have H1N1 flu vaccines available soon.

Contact health reporter Amber Wade at [email protected].