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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

H1N1 and MCC


As you know, public health officials predict a resurgence of H1N1 flu this fall. As we plan and take steps to prevent the spread of the virus, our commitment to the health of our college community is paramount. At the same time, we remain committed to meeting the educational promises that we have made to our students. To accomplish both will require a community-wide effort.

As I mentioned in my All College Day remarks, keeping this college community healthy is everyone’s responsibility. Each of us must incorporate as habits the recommended and common sense strategies for minimizing the spread of the flu.

1.      Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
2.      Wash your hands often or use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
3.      Stay home if you are sick.

The importance of self-isolation when you have flu-like symptoms cannot be stressed too much. You may think that coming to work is helpful – after all, you’re pitching in to help the team! – but truly, I want you to stay home if you are sick. It is in everyone’s best interest.

In addition to HYPERLINK "
https://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm"preparing yourself and your family for H1N1, I encourage you to make plans in your department. If you teach, what are your options for class continuity if you become ill? If you are a department chair or office director, how will your area function if illness keeps significant numbers of employees home?   Planning will not only minimize disruptions but also bring a measure of confidence in a public health environment that is fluid and changing.

Finally, I urge you to be patient. If we experience high incidences of illness, our systems and our people will be stressed. Be patient. Be calm. We share the same goal: to keep ourselves and each other healthy and to support our students’ success. Together we will work through this.

Best wishes for a healthy and academically enriching semester!

Anne

Anne M. Kress, Ph.D.
President
09/04/2009