Parent Response to Student with Flu-Like Symptoms
Carroll College strongly advises that parents with a student with the flu or flu-like symptoms transport the student home (by private vehicle, not public transportation) to remain for the duration of the illness. The student should remain at home for the 7-9 days of the flu and not return to classes or work until at least 24 hours afer the fever ends without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
Students should seek medical attention if they have a medical condition that puts them at risk of severe illness from flu, are concerned about their illness, or develop severe symptoms such as increased fever, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or rapid breathing.
The H1N1 flu is reported to be highly contagious for one day prior to symptoms and up to 7 days after symptoms. Parents should follow guidelines to self-isolate their student and limit the student's contact with others.
Flu Symptoms
The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with the virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
The H1N1 flu virus is reported to have a fever of 100'F-103'F throughout the course of the illness. Local health officials have informed Carroll College that the flu symptoms typically persist 7-9 days and that students should not return to classes or work for at least 24 hours after the fever breaks without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
Generally, those who develop H1N1 flu experience an illness similar to a seasonal flu. Most cases are relatively mild. The vast majority of people with this type of flu recover uneventfully.
Notification of the College of H1N1 Flu
Students with the H1N1 flu virus can contact the Student Life Office (406.447.4415 or jsheehy -is-at- carroll -dot- edu) to notify professors of their absence from class due to the H1N1 flu.
When To Seek Medical Care
Students should promptly seek medical care if they have a medical condition that puts them at increased risk of severe illness from flu, are concerned about their illness, or develop severe symptoms such as increased fever, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or rapid breathing.
Self-Isolation of Student
Given the highly contagious nature of the H1N1 flu virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend self-isolation, except to seek medical care. Students should stay away from classes and work as well as limit interactions with other people. If possible, students should go home for the duration of the illness.
Student Care - Flu Buddy System
Students with the flu or flu-like symptoms who remain at the college should establish a "flu buddy" system to deliver meals, restock fluid supplies (particularly products like Gatorade that will replenish electrolytes), monitor symptoms and take to medical care if needed. Students living on campus can use their CA to assist with meals and fluids. Students living off campus will need to find a friend to assist with meals and fluids.
Emergency Phone Numbers
406.459.0540 On-Call Housing Staff
406.949.4357 On-Call Counselor
406.447.5100 Security Dispatch
406.444.3233 St. Peter's Hospital
406.443.5354 Urgent Care
406.447.5441 Health Center