In light of the continuing news about the spread of H1N1 flu (swine flu), Moody’s Crisis Response Team issued the following statement to students and staff on Friday to help communicate what was being done on campus related to the swine flu alerts, as well as what could be done on a personal level to stay healthy.

Swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus. It is spread the same ways that the seasonal flu occurs, primarily person-to-person via coughing and/or sneezing of those infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching a surface with flu viruses on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.

The Moody Crisis Management Team is monitoring the news related to the spread of swine flu and is prepared to implement crisis response measures when there are indicators that Chicago has significant cases reported, and that there is risk to our campus community. Currently this is not the case, and therefore preventive measures are the best course of action. Below is an outline of what is being done as an organization, as well as recommendations for a personal response for students, staff and faculty of the Moody Bible Institute.

Organizational Prevention Measures:
• Hand sanitizers are being strategically placed in public areas to provide easy access for people to make sure their hands are clean
• Signs will be posted in restrooms reminding people of the importance of hand washing as a means of prevention for cold and flu
• Facilities staff are taking extra steps to clean all public areas with solutions specializing in prevention of flu bacteria, wiping down door knobs, elevator buttons, handrails, phones and other places that are considered high touched areas.

Personal Prevention Measures:
• Cover your mouth when coughing to prevent the spread of germs
• Wash your hands regularly
• Make wise choices about places you choose to frequent where large crowds might be present
• Visit the doctor or Health Services at the first indication of flu-like symptoms

To learn more about swine flu, visit the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Web site, which provides links to Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization and the Illinois Department of Public Health.