Influenza Information
Kenyon, like other colleges around the country, is battling H1N1 Influenza, a highly contagious virus that is a greater threat to young people than to older ones.
The Health and Counseling Center has recently encountered an upswing in the number of students reporting flu-like symptoms with many confirmed as Influenza Type A, which indicates the H1N1 virus.
President S. Georgia Nugent has created a team of College leaders to share knowledge and respond quickly to the challenge of H1N1 flu. The College is following the prevention and treatment guidelines provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and is in communication with the Knox County Health Department.
Everyone on campus is being urged, through an information campaign, to take preventive steps. Students who become ill should call, but not visit, the Health and Counseling Center, and avoid contact with others. Students will receive flu kits, including masks. Masks are also available at residence halls. Hand-sanitizing lotions have been distributed around campus, including at dining tables in Peirce Hall.
Students with the flu are being advised on the best ways to self-isolate, and some students have moved to residence-hall space where they can recover without affecting others. Health and Counseling is providing medical attention to students in isolation and meals are being delivered to them. The College is actively seeking the H1N1 vaccine.
The College community will be kept informed through this Web site, through e-mail, and through direct communication from the staff and community advisors in the residence halls.
Flu News Archive
Novenber 18, 2009| Update for Students
October 30, 2009| Letter to Parents from S. Georgia Nugent
October 29, 2009| Update for Employees
October 29, 2009| Update for Students
Otober 12, 2009| Letter to Parents
September 28, 2009 H1N1 Situation Update
In rare cases, H1N1 leads to serious complications. It is very important to get medical attention right away if you fail to recover from an influenza-like illness, or have symptoms worsen after an apparent recovery. Pay particular attention to any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Even though most people are recovering without incident, there have been severe cases and even deaths at American colleges, and you should be alert to any changes that could signal the need for emergency treatment.
September 22, 2009 Self-Isolation Notification Form
September 9, 2009 H1N1 Situation Update
Campus flu activity remains mild. At this point, we are seeing an increased prevalence of gastrointestinal or "stomach" virus' as well as the usual Kenyon Krud (congestion, coughing, low grade fever). Using the same precautions to prevent H1N1 (hand washing, covering coughs, and staying in your room if sick) will also offer you the same protection against other illnesses that are circulating on campus. If you feel that you are developing influenza, please call the health center with your concerns.
August 28, 2009| Letter to Parents
August 27, 2009| H1N1 test is positive for Kenyon student
August 20, 2009 | Student with Influenza