The H1N1 virus is becoming a problem on college campuses throughout the U.S. and John Carroll University is no exception. Commonly known as the “swine flu,” H1N1 is a newer form of influenza that has been sweeping the country since this past April. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a pandemic as it affected people across the globe.
Xavier University, the other Jesuit university in Ohio, has seen over 100 probable cases, 50 of which were confirmed, within the first week of school being in session. JCU has been preparing itself to accommodate the student body if cases of H1N1 become an issue here, too. Among other things, the University has established a recovery center in the basement of Murphy Hall for students to rest and recover without being in their regular rooms, thus decreasing the odds of spreading H1N1 to other students. In addition, there will be either a nurse or JCU EMS responder on call 24 hours a day and Aramark has agreed to deliver meals to the students being treated. Furthermore, JCU is encouraging students to sanitize their hands frequently and avoid sharing drinks, as well as not touching one’s nose, eyes or mouth in order to prevent getting sick.
We commend JCU for taking the right steps in order to make sure that students who do acquire H1N1 are taken care of and doing what they can to prevent the virus from spreading.
H1N1 is a serious threat, however, JCU has taken appropriate action to help the student body stay healthy throughout this school year.
