Nearly 2,500 bags filled with individual hand sanitizer, pocket pack tissues and other informational items relating to flu prevention will be distributed over the next two weeks to students across Mississippi?s eight public universities.

Business cards with campus health clinic phone numbers and hours of operation have already been sent to campus health clinics to be given out to students.

The initiative, funded by the Mississippi Department of Health, is part of the State Institutions of Higher Learning's continuing efforts to help faculty, students and staff stay healthy and prevent the spread of novel H1N1 ? commonly called Swine Flu ? and other illnesses.

The CDC recommends that faculty, students and staff exhibiting flu-like symptoms stay at their home, dormitory or residence hall until at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever or signs of a fever.

If resources are available, the CDC also recommends that institutions establish methods of maintaining contact with students who are sick.

Some tips for staying healthy include:

• Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing;
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
• Carry alcohol-based sanitizer and use frequently;
• Clean living quarters frequently, especially shared spaces; and
• Talk to a health care provider about other preventive measures.

For more information, visit IHL's Flu & Illness Prevention Web site. To view the most recent news on flu and illness prevention and other issues on campuses across Mississippi, become a fan of IHL's Facebook page.

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