H1N1 Virus Update

Dear Georgia Southern University Fall 2009 Commencement Attendee:

As you are likely aware, the United States is currently involved in an outbreak of H1N1 swine flu. Georgia Southern University officials are proactively working to protect all of the University’s students, faculty, and staff, as well visitors, including graduates, their family members, and friends who plan on attending the upcoming commencement activities on December 11, 2009.

In an effort to reduce the likelihood of introduction of the H1N1 (swine) flu onto the Georgia Southern University campus from an outside source, we respectfully ask that any family members or friends who are sick, especially those with fever and upper respiratory symptoms, stay home until the duration of their illness has exceeded seven days, or 24 hours after resolution of the illness, whichever comes first. Georgia Southern University is expecting more than 20,000 visitors for graduation and we appreciate your cooperation and support.

Should friends or relatives not be able to make it to campus, Georgia Southern University is making the ceremony available live online at: www.georgiasouthern.edu/commencement. They may watch the entire ceremony free of charge via the Internet by visiting the above Web site. In addition, DVDs of the ceremony will be available for purchase through the University Store (www.gsustore.com) in the coming weeks.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of some simple steps that can be shared with your family members and friends to keep them healthy and reduce the likelihood of transmission of illness:

• cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve when you sneeze or cough.
• wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol based cleaner.
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• stay home and away from work or school or other public activities if you are sick.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

Sincerely,

Brian M. DeLoach, M.D.
Chief of Medical Staff
Georgia Southern University Health Services