We'd like to update the Swine Flu information that was shared with the campus community earlier this week. As of today--Thursday, April 30--109 human cases of the virus and one death have been identified in the United States. One probable case has been identified in Tennessee at Nashville's Harding Academy, which has led to the temporary closing of the school for seven to nine days.

Following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC,) Belmont asks that anyone with flu-like symptoms (documented fever over 100 degrees, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue) stay home from work or class and limit contact with others to prevent additional infections. If you have these symptoms, contact your physician or Belmont’s Health Services immediately.

All Belmont faculty, staff and students should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough/sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
• 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 as germs spread that way.

Belmont University Health Services professionals and administration officials are continuing to meet and monitor this ongoing situation. More information can be found on the CDC Web site: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/. In addition, Belmont will update any details directly impacting the school on Belmont’s Intranet Connection (BIC) https://bic.belmont.edu/ as well as on the Belmont University News Line: 460-5000.