Fairfield University was informed today by local health officials that five additional students who had been identified last week as "probable" for the H1N1 flu have been confirmed as having had that flu. All five students have already recovered and were cleared to return to normal activities earlier this week. One more student who was identified as "probable" for H1N1 flu, is expected to be confirmed as well, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to seven, with an eighth case expected.

In a communication to the University community, Mark C. Reed, Vice President for Administrative and Student Affairs, said, "Presentations for flu-like symptoms at the University have dropped off dramatically since last week. Consistent with national trends, this is a relatively mild flu that has been well-tolerated, and in Fairfield's case, well-contained. Most importantly, those infected have fully recovered."

Fairfield University officials remain in regular contact with local and state health officials and monitor the guidelines recommended for colleges and universities. All activities and operations of the University remain open and on schedule as planned.

Reed said the Health Center will remain open next week while Senior Week activities take place and Commencement approaches. He encouraged any student remaining on campus who might experience illness with flu-like symptoms to go to the Health Center.

Fairfield University continues to have a special H1N1 Flu Information and Updates section on its home page at www.fairfield.edu.

Posted On: 05-08-2009 10:05 AM

Volume: 41 Number: 333