Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the H1N1 influenza (swine flu)

Is the H1N1 flu the same as the avian (bird) flu that was in the news several years ago?

Why isn't the university following its AVIAN flu pandemic plan that is published on the University's web page?

Does the University have a pandemic plan for H1N1?

Will DES close buildings where people have become ill with the flu?

Will DES disinfect a building where someone has become ill with the flu?

Will I be given a respirator to wear at work to protect me against H1N1 flu?

How long can the H1N1 virus live on environmental surfaces?

Will the seasonal flu vaccine protect me from H1N1 flu?

Will building ventilation systems be shut down to prevent transmission of H1N1 illness?

Can I install a hand sanitizer dispenser in my area?

Is the H1N1 flu the same as the avian (bird) flu pandemic that was in the news several years ago?
No, this is a different strain of influenza virus, which produces a much milder human illness than the avian flu.

Why isn't the university following its AVIAN flu pandemic plan that is published on the University's web page?
The H1N1 is a milder flu that does not require the extraordinary measures that were proposed for the avian flu, so the AVIAN flu plan is not appropriate. H1N1 flu has a mortality rate of less than 1%; the avian flu has a mortality rate of approximately 60-70 %, and therefore would require a more drastic response. Currently there is no avian flu pandemic.

Does the University have a pandemic plan for H1N1?
The university has published its H1N1 Flu Preparations on the University's web page at http://www.umd.edu/umnews/h1n1fall09.cfm.

Will DES close buildings where people have become ill with the flu?
No, DES will not close buildings, and the CDC does not recommend that buildings be closed or decontaminated.

Will DES disinfect a building where someone has become ill with the flu?
No, the CDC is not recommending that buildings be decontaminated. Buildings will be cleaned as usual by housekeeping staff, with perhaps additional attention to frequently touched surfaces.

Will I be given a respirator to wear at work to protect me against H1N1 flu?
According to the CDC, use of respirators or facemasks is not recommended for workers in non-healthcare occupational settings for general work activities. For specific work activities such as escorting, interviewing or providing assistance to an individual with influenza-like illness, some workers may choose to wear a face mask or respirator on a voluntary basis.

How long can the H1N1 virus live on environmental surfaces?
The influenza virus can live for 2-8 hours on surfaces such as books and doorknobs. Viruses can be spread when a person touches a contaminated surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. Therefore the best way to protect yourself is to wash your hands frequently, and to keep your hands away from your eyes, mouth and nose.

Will the seasonal flu vaccine protect me from H1N1 illness?
The seasonal flu vaccine is not intended to provide protection against H1N1 flu. There will be a separate H1N1 vaccine that is expected to be available in mid-October.

Will building ventilation systems be shut down to prevent transmission of H1N1 flu?
There is no evidence to suggest that the flu virus is transmitted through ventilation systems.

Can I install a hand sanitizer dispenser in my area?
Installation of alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers must meet fire safety requirements. Depending on the building involved, contact either Facilities Management, Residential Facilities, or Dining Services to request additional dispensers that are in conformance with the requirements.