Michigan State University - No Handshakes with Diplomas due to SWINE FLU

Michigan State University students getting their diplomas this week may not get the handshake that typically goes with it.

Fears of spreading the swine flu, or H1N1, MSU enacted a no handshake policy.

"In light of the recent H1N1 flu (swine flu) outbreak, MSU wants your help in keeping your fellow Spartans and guests safe during this busy week on campus. At this time MSU's health professionals advise that all classes, commencement activities and business operations continue as scheduled. However, they do recommend taking one simple but prudent preventative measure--avoid shaking hands."

MSU has been actively preparing for the potential of a pandemic for a number of years. As more cases of swine flu are expected both globally and in the United States, MSU will continue to monitor the situation and make any scheduling and/or policy changes as needed.

At this time, there have been no changes to university operations or activities as a result of the outbreak.

All MSU faculty, students and staff are encouraged to always be vigilant about their health:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.
2. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (then throw out the tissue).
3. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you have a fever along with other symptoms, please call your medical provider to determine whether you should be tested for flu.
4. If you do have the flu, please stay home to avoid infecting others.

MSU / swine flu outbreak.

Swine Flu Outbreak in Mexico Cancels MSU Study Abroad

MSU has canceled its current study abroad programs in Mexico because of the swine flu scare.

A university spokesman said today the decision affects four students.

One is already in Texas and the university is working on arrangements to get the other three students back to their homes in the United States. The classes already had been suspended in Mexico by local officials.

No decision has been made on the status of Michigan State’s summer study abroad programs in Mexico.

Swine flu is a type of virus. It's named for a virus that pigs can get.

People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. The virus is contagious and can spread from human to human. Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

There are antiviral medicines you can take to prevent or treat swine flu. There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. You can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza by

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. You can also use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Trying to avoid close contact with sick people. Staying home from work or school if you are sick.

A second probable case of swine flu in Michigan has been reported out of Ottawa County.
The state health lab confirmed a 34-year-old woman who was in a Kent County hospital has possible swine flu. The tests will be confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The first case involves a woman in Livingston County, whose test results were sent to CDC Monday for confirmation.
Both women are recovering at home.