H1N1 and the WC: Gives "Contact Zone" a Whole New Meaning

In light of Jeremiah's announcement during today's meeting, the recent increase in flu-like symptoms on campus and the three H1N1-related deaths that occurred last week in the state, my personal H1N1 paranoia has definitely increased recently. Moreover, my concern for WCenter tutors has definitely spiked. The inherent structure of a tutoring session constructs a Contact Zone -- not only a space wherein persons from diverse backgrounds (heritages, cultures, etc.) interact, but literally a place where people are undeniably in close quarters, making almost literal contact! With regard to H1N1 prevention, this situation doesn't exactly cater to the "social distancing" strategy proposed by the University. Of course, we cannot tutor through walls (Well, I suppose we could try.. very Virginia Woolf, no?) and therefore can't practice this prevention technique realistically. I see this is as the precise reason why we should become more cognizant of the other available, simple prevention techniques -- perhaps even become some of the most informed individuals on campus.

The University has released an H1N1 Prevention Flyer, (complete with eerie sick-people images and lots of bold text) suggesting a list of basic prevention techniques to students, including:

• Washing hands FREQUENTLY with soap and warm water, or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Coughing or sneezing in the crook of one's elbow or a tissue
• Avoidance of touching one's eyes, nose and mouth, and
• Staying at home if feeling ill

In addition to the above suggestions, I've stumbled upon a few more simple choices we can make to stay tip-top and tutoring-ready:

• Probiotics: My boyfriend's mother is a Nurse Practitioner and thrust a bottle of these at me over Sunday dinner. Probiotics are found in yogurt and a number of other foods, and maintain balance in the body while, additionally, boosting the immune system. If you're not a yogurt lover, taking two of these side effect-free pills a day is a recommended form of prevention -- remember to store the bottle in the refrigerator!
  
• Plenty of sleep! As a senior in my final semester, I understand this is a tall-order suggestion. Nevertheless, a good night's sleep undeniably helps keep one healthy; it couldn't hurt of us all to try an rack up a few more sleep hours a week.
• Take the stairs. Physical activity is definitely connected to one's overall health, so take the stairs instead of that scary, creepy elevator!
• Drink plenty of fluids. Indulge in a little WCenter tea; there are currently boxes of delicious lemongrass, green, Irish breakfast and ginger tea up on the fourth floor!
  
• A note on social distancing: While we can't help being in close quarters in the WCenter, cultivating a healthy zen bubble outside of the center can also help to ensure tutor health. I'm certainly not suggesting we wear gas masks around our roommates, but perhaps avoiding the super-popular, communal ice-luge wouldn't be a bad idea...
  

In addition to the above suggestions, representatives from URI's Health Services are participating in web chats to address any student questions or concerns about the virus. The transcripts from the first and second chats are already available online. There is also an official webspace established "specifically for H1N1 updates." The last update was posted on the 21st of October.
Finally, the University has released a list of suggested items for students living on and off-campus to have on-hand. Some of these items seem applicable to the WCenter space; perhaps we could consider placing the following in the Center:

• Tissues
• Disinfectant Wipes
• A small package of surgical masks (though, I think this is a bit over-the-top)
• We're already got the sanitizer - go AEC and WCenter!

As Jeremiah announced today, calling out if we're really sick or incapacitated is recommended. If you are suffering from flu-like symptoms, the University encourages you to stay home until a full 24hours have passed since the last sign of symptoms. Flu symptoms include: Fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, muscle aches, and an array of unpleasant stomach symptoms.

The H1N1 vaccine will not be available in Rhode Island until December - at least a month from now. Remaining conscious of the above suggestions and prevention tips may help ensure we're healthy and happy and tutoring. I know how dedicated to the writers of URI we all are and, as a girl that was ill for a number of months last year, I know the no-fun feelings that come with having to miss a session/class. Unlike with other illnesses, H1N1 will put one on house arrest (I've always been a fan of the not-contagious-push-self-up-four-floors-of-stairs-to-tutor-maneuver, which just won't do with H1N1!). Let's stay aware so we can stay upstairs!