H1N1 Influenza

San Jacinto College is carefully monitoring news concerning the H1N1 influenza virus. Unlike seasonal flu, H1N1 is a novel virus, and we have little or no immunity. The Centers for Disease Control predict as many 40 percent of us could become ill with this new virus over the next two years. And while H1N1 has not been an especially lethal virus so far, the CDC says it has the potential to become so. It's also thought that the college-age population will be more at risk than those ages 25 or older.

Vaccines are being developed for H1N1. The first shipment is expected to be ready no sooner than late October, and then more are expected to follow.

This web site offers resources to help you prepare and take action if you or someone you know becomes ill. The most important step to help prevent its spread is to practice exceptional hygiene and to stay home and isolate yourself if you are ill for at least 24 hours after your temperature returns to normal without the aid of medicine.