By: John Potter

November 2009

In reaction to H1N1 breakouts, Elmhurst College has implemented an isolation unit in the Elmhurst Terrace Apartments for students who have this strain of the flu.

The college is insisting that students with H1N1 symptoms leave campus until they are no longer contagious and have not had a fever for 24 hours. EC has 17 confirmed cases of students with H1N1, but only one student has used the isolation apartment.

Christine Smith, director of Residence Life, explained the advantages of using an apartment for the isolation unit.

“An apartment offers students a private bathroom, an opportunity for rest, and helps to prevent further spread within a traditional residential community sharing common areas and facilities.”

This unit is designated for students who show signs of contagious illness, but who may not be able to otherwise leave campus. For example, the apartment assists international students or students from out of state.

“An isolation apartment is for any student not able to return
home,” said Smith.   Students who need to utilize this space are under the care of Student Health Services.  “Student Health Services advises the student and provides handouts regarding personal care such as taking their temperature ... fluid intake, further symptoms and when to seek additional medical attention,” said Smith.

Residence Life provides a pass for the student to receive food from Chartwells and Facilities Management is involved in the process by cleaning the unit between occupancy.

“Facilities Management works with our staff to clean and prepare the apartments before and after a student resides in the unit,” said Smith.

This process was not set up specifically for the H1N1 virus, but rather for any serious contagious illness.

“The staff in Student Health Services, Facilities Management, Chartwells and Residence Life began working together back when campuses were to identify response procedures for the Avian Flu,” said Smith.

Students are instructed to find a friend or buddy if they are being temporarily moved to the isolation unit as well.

Earlier this month, Residence Life sent out an e-mail about the college’s compiled list of things students can do to help diminish the number of H1N1 cases at the school.

The advice stressed knowledge of the symptoms of H1N1, seeking medical attention, and remaining at home and out of public places.

Senior Brian Minardi expresses his concern for H1N1, but his opinion is that it’s not as dangerous as people believe it to be.

“I would say I’m more concerned about the H1N1 strain than the usual seasonal cold/flu, but I’m not concerned enough to get vaccinated.”

However, Minardi believes that the precautions being taken by Residence Life are not too demanding. “The policies seem like a matter of courtesy. If you get it, try not to spread it around.”

Junior Jason Sweet also believes that the H1N1 strain may be overestimated but still would rather be a bit cautious.

“It looks like we’re taking some good precautions. In the end it’s better to be safe than sorry.”