Although no cases of Influenza A (H1N1) have been reported in Santa Barbara County, UCSB health officials, including Student Health Services Director Elizabeth Downing, M.D., are closely monitoring investigations of the virus in California and elsewhere.

The campus’s Web site is being updated regularly as new information becomes available. According to health officials, the symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to those of regular seasonal influenza. However, because the seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against H1N1, the Centers for Disease Control recommends the use of Tamiflu or Relenza for treatment.

Student Health Services can treat students for influenza and other respiratory diseases, and residence halls are taking precautions to minimize any spread of illness.

Information about the H1N1 virus can be found at <http://studenthealth.sa.ucsb.edu/SwineFlu.aspx>.