Dr. J's message for May 2-9, 2009
This week, Provost Joe Alutto and I sent all students two emails regarding swine flu. The first, on Monday, let you know that the university is prepared to handle a flu emergency should that become necessary. We also listed the tips provided by the Centers for Disease Control for reducing risk of exposure and contamination. The second message, on Wednesday evening, forwarded news that a staff member of the university's medical center had been diagnosed with a probable case of the disease. Friday evening, the university sent another message notifying students, faculty and staff that a student had been diagnosed with a probable case and moved to isolation. It is important for you to have accurate information, and we will continue to keep you informed.
Even though the number of reported cases in the United States is growing, the total is still very small, and most of the cases have not been severe. This story has dominated news all week, and some of the coverage has been, in my opinion, sensationalized and unnecessarily frightening. As the week progressed, the news coverage became more balanced as the health experts got more information and it became clear that most of the people who have contracted the virus have not become severely ill.
There are good outcomes to lots of media attention to an issue. In this case, we are all being reminded of the importance of basic good health practices such as washing our hands, covering our sneezes and coughs, and staying home when we are sick. For an entertaining-and informative-lesson on the right and wrong ways to cough and sneeze, see this YouTube video .
On the other hand, too much news coverage can lead to anxiety, over-reaction, and even misinformation. The American Psychological Association has a webpage with tips on handling stress and anxiety related to the swine flu epidemic. Please follow health precautions, and check emergency.osu.edu for updates on the situation here at Ohio State. If you're feeling sick, particularly if you have fever, body aches, coughing and fatigue, stay home and call your health care provider or the Advice Nurse at the Wilce Student Health Center during business hours at (614) 292 4321 to see if you should see a doctor. The Student Health Center will keep its website updated as well.
Take care, and don't forget that Mother's Day is next weekend. Cards, flowers and gifts are nice, but there's nothing most moms (and grandmothers, aunts, or other mother figures in your life) treasure more than some of your undivided time, in person, on the phone or in a letter. Tell her you love her, show her you appreciate her.
Dr. J
Javaune Adams-Gaston
Vice President for Student Life
vicepresident@studentlife.osu.edu
Contact:
Ruth Gerstner
(614) 292-8424
rgerstner@studentlife.osu.edu