STUDENT INPUT HELPS CREATE LIBRARY LEARNING COMMONS
Students Collaborate with Auburn University to create a library facility

AUBURN, Ala. – The tattoo parlor didn’t make it, but many other services that students requested did. The new Learning Commons that opened in Auburn University’s Ralph Brown Draughon Library in January is a result of student collaboration with administrators to create a space designed specifically for students, by students.

The RBD is a place with which all Auburn University students and faculty are familiar. A second home for many students to meet, study, work, and occasionally, during finals week, sleep. The library’s resources far surpass those of many others around the country.

Since students are the majority of people spending their time in the library, it only made sense to administrators to find out their wants and needs, and implement them. The Commons resulted from a three-year plan to design a space for today’s students.

The space features 300 power outlets, movable whiteboards, 10 study group areas and 415 new seats. The Miller Writing Center, Study Partners, Office of Information Technology Help Desk and library reference services are located in the Learning Commons. Even a Caribou Coffee shop has been added, which, judging from the crowds on any given day, appears to be extremely popular with students.

“Finally, a good coffee place in the library,” Auburn University student Carly Williams says. “I spend a lot more time in the library now that I can get my fix of
caffeine during study breaks!”

The Commons is not an idea unique only to Auburn. Marcia Boosinger, who, as associate dean for public services, oversees reference and instruction in circulation and branch libraries, says the plan to offer spaces constructed by utilizing user feedback has been implemented in many academic libraries throughout the nation. The schools have realized that input about how their users work and study today are imperative to meet their needs.

The process to create the Commons was a long one, but an enjoyable one as well, according to Dean of Auburn University Libraries, Bonnie MacEwan.

“It has been a pleasure and an honor from beginning to end,” MacEwan, says. “It has truly been a team effort.”

The effort was collaborative among many different groups. MacEwan said Auburn’s students helped leaders to understand library related needs; librarians and staff made the ideas into plans; facilities assisted in the actual build; OIT, Study Partners, and the Writing Center joined the effort; and EBSCO industries, the Provost and facilities dug into limited budgets for funding.

The result made the work all worth it, MacEwan said. “I love to walk through and see students being tutored, see them getting computer assistance at the OIT desk, see them consulting with the Reference Librarians, see them gathered in groups and lined up for coffee and snacks at Caribou,” MacEwan says.

MacEwan said that in England, many citizens have “three places” that they go most often. Work and home tend to be the first two, and for adults, the third place is usually a pub. RBD Library’s goal was for the Commons to be that “third place” for Auburn students to go to relax and be comfortable. That’s why the design is flexible, the furniture movable and a coffee shop is available.

For four years, the library has been soliciting feedback from stakeholders about how it can better serve its users. Exercises such as “Draw Your Library”, “I am a Camera”, and “Where Did You Go?”; surveys; and discussions with the Library Student Advisory Council allowed the library to gather information both formally and informally.

“Draw Your Library” was a program started in 2006 in which four or five students were selected at random every half-hour and given instructions to draw what their idea of a single floor of the library should look like and reflect all the services they think were necessary. The students were given pizza and drinks while they worked, and could register for an iPod for participating.

“I am a Camera” recruited random students to take pictures of and describe various aspects in their study habits such as: items they take to class, what they consider high tech, where they go in the library to get help with an assignment, etc.

“Where Do You Go?” was a program designed to discover an idea of where, when and how the library is utilized. Faculty, undergraduate and graduate students were given surveys at the door of the library and asked to check off services they used. The participants were then entered to win an iPod and other prizes. A second survey was used in which large maps were placed on windows and participants would place stickers over areas they used. The feedback was successful, with 960 completed surveys turned in.

“I didn’t mind participating in the surveys,” student Payton Ely, a participant in “Where Do You Go?” said. “It took just a minute and I got the chance to win an iPod. Plus it was cool to feel like I was doing something to help.”

The results of all the programs and surveys were compiled and professional planners and Auburn’s campus partners came in for a two-day design workshop last summer and worked tirelessly to then buy necessary equipment and furnishings. The Commons opened Jan. 11, 2010, the first day of spring semester. It was officially dedicated on Feb. 5.

To publicize the Commons, word of mouth has done a fair amount of the work. Many students talk about the new facility.

“I love the Learning Commons,” Auburn student Grace Seymour says. “It’s so nice to have the extra space, and we definitely needed all of those group study areas. The study rooms used to fill up all the time.”

Auburn’s Web site, the Auburn Daily, Auburn Report, signs in the library and the dedication have all publicized the Commons. RBDpalooza, a gaming event held on March 5, was held in the Learning Commons to encourage students to visit the space.

According to library leadership, the Learning Commons is a positive facility created by the students and for the students, and the RBD Library is a better place because students had a change to make their voices heard.

“I’m so happy to feel a part of something here at Auburn,” Ely says. “It’s great to see something that the student body created. And it’s even better that Auburn listened.”

Webmaster Tony Oravet provides the following rundown on Twitter, how it works, and why it’s useful.

What is Twitter, anyway?
Twitter is a social networking and microblogging service that enables its users to send and read messages known as tweets. Tweets are text-based posts of up to 140 characters displayed on the author’s profile page and delivered to the author’s subscribers who are known as followers. Senders can restrict delivery to those in their circle of friends or, by default, allow open access.

How Can Twitter Benefit the Libraries?
Because of the rapidly growing popularity of social networking sites and in an attempt to reach out to those participating, many libraries have created their own Twitter accounts. Although the original intent was to network with patrons and others within their community, many libraries are finding that Twitter has many other uses beyond the simple “what are you doing?” tweet. Twittering Libraries are not only making better (and wider) connections in their communities, they are also networking with other libraries and librarians, using it as an educational and professional development tool, advertising their programs and services and incorporating it within their blogs and websites.

How do other Libraries (universities? departments?) use Twitter?
Some examples of how libraries are using Twitter include:

• For library announcements
• To post news such as special events, holiday hours, exhibits, new book arrivals
• Updated resources or reminders of important resources, instruction sessions and new reference services
• Using Twitter as another communication tool with patrons/clients
• As a reference service
• As a way to keep in touch with librarian friends and colleagues as well as a way to collaborate on projects
• As a way to stay on top of the latest technologies
• For customer service
• To send alerts about requested materials
• As a short newsletter
• As a public relations/marketing tool
• As a way to get and share information about conferences and other professional development opportunities (i.e., registration deadlines, speakers, accommodation information, webinars)
• Cataloging and tagging
• Internal updates
• For networking with other librarians, libraries, and library-affiliated organizations

Trehub was selected to receive the award for his efforts in support of two Network of Alabama Academic Libraries projects, AlabamaMosaic and the Alabama Digital Preservation Network (ADPNet); his involvement in several ground-breaking initiatives fostered by the Association of Research Libraries and the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries; and his excellent leadership, vision and work toward the overall advancement of libraries. AlabamaMosaic exists as it does today because of Trehub’s assiduous support, and his work as project director of ADPNet has developed the project into an innovative model for low-cost preservation and archival solutions.

Trehub’s award marks the second time in a decade that a member of the Auburn University Libraries staff has won the Sue O. Medina Award. Marcia Boosinger, associate dean for public services, won the award in 2004.

First, let me add a little info to things you already know about.   You already know about the carpet installation on the third floor and office areas, about the installation of the Reference/Instruction Librarian offices, the creation of the Learning Commons and the integration of the Miller Writing Center, Academic Support services, and OIT tech support.  However, did you know that every one of the one hundred and seventy two ranges on the third floor were moved, books and all, at least two times and in many cases three or four times?  Each range is about twenty one feet long and has an average weight of two thousand pounds.  In eighteen days a crew of seven guys moved around five hundred sixteen tons.   In addition, almost thirty two thousand square yards of carpet was handled.  To create the almost fifteen thousand six hundred square feet of space for the Learning Commons JP, his students, and many of you shifted eight hundred twenty thousand items.   We also had to disassemble and remove thirty two shelving ranges.  Facilities had to run wiring for over three hundred new electrical outlets and we ordered, received, installed and arranged over $300,000.00 worth of new furniture.  A crew of three guys built the Reference/Instruction Librarian offices in five days.

Now let me update you on a couple of projects that have started.  We’re finally getting a new fire alarm system throughout the building.  The new system will feature addressable smoke detectors, a voice alarm system, and an automated alert option that is tied in to the University’s warning system.  The addressable smoke detectors should eliminate the false alarms we’ve become so famous for.  The major cause of our false alarms is dust accumulation in the old smoke detectors.  Once dust builds up to a certain point they alarm and the building goes into an evacuation.   The new ones will send three electronic messages to the contractor warning that they are getting dirty.  The contractor will run a list of dirty detectors on a daily basis and can simply replace the dirty head with a clean one then take the dirty one back to the shop for a thorough cleaning.  If the first message is missed or ignored a second message is sent.  The contractor is supposed to respond to the second message within twenty four hours.  If a third message is sent the contractor has four hours to respond before the detector goes into alarm mode.  The bottom line is that we really should not have any more false alarms due to dust accumulation.  If the system does alarm, the fire department will know exactly where to go to verify the threat.   They will no longer have to wander around an entire floor trying to spot which detector is alarming so evacuations should be cleared much quicker.  Another project that will be running concurrently with the alarm system is the addition of over six hundred new electrical outlets.  Each column in the main seating areas throughout the building will have four duplexes installed.  They will also be adding outlets to the columns along the windows, core drilling in the third floor Graduate Student/Faculty Reading room, and wiring some of our carrels for power.  These two projects will take six to nine months to complete and are being done almost entirely by our Facilities In-House Construction team.

After all that, here’s some stuff you probably haven’t heard about yet.   Sometime late this summer the Atrium will be painted, the neon lighting will be removed, and a series of large, colorful, sound baffling banners will be hung.  This project is currently in the planning stage but will entail the temporary installation of a huge amount of scaffolding in the atrium.  It should be quite interesting to watch and the end result will be a really good looking atrium that will not be quite the “sound chimney” that it currently is.  Also in the planning stages at facilities is a project to upgrade the HVAC in Special collections which will stabilize the temperature and humidity at recommended levels for archival collections.  This project will also include the re-carpeting of the Special Collection/Archives area.  Another project on the horizon is to provide further protection to our server room by adding it and the equipment needed to support it to the backup generator.  This project is in the beginning planning stages and will probably not be started until next year.  Last, but certainly not least is to complete the re-carpeting of the building.  Looks like we’ll be finishing off the re-carpeting this Christmas break.

Keep an eye out for more updates.

Bob

The 7th Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee will be held Thursday, July 29, at the Saugahatchee Country Club. Cocktails are scheduled for 5 p.m. and the competition begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, and the spelling bee benefits the Lee County Literacy Coalition. Plan now to attend and cheer the Dewey Decimators to victory! Contact Paula Sullenger if you would like to buy tickets.

Yvette Rivera in the Dean’s Office has been temporarily relocated to 2021H (Bob Yerkey’s old office).  She will be working from this office while Facilities makes some improvements to her work area.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Reference held the final Snacks in the Stacks event last Thursday, July 15. Turnout throughout the summer was fantastic, with groups of parents ranging from 75 – 175 per session!

What’s happening soon:

Tailgate @ the Library, the Libraries’ annual open house, is scheduled for Friday, September 3, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Events Committee is planning a 50th anniversary celebration in honor of our library building. The celebration will take place over the course of the fall semester, culminating in an anniversary party to be held the first week in November.  A timeline exhibit, 50th anniversary website and more details are coming soon!

-Secure your handheld device – your cell phone, iPhone, iPod Touch, Blackberry, or any other Smartphone data can be protected by simply setting a password on the device.

-Install virus detection software and keep it up to date. Anti-virus programs perform two general functions: scanning for & removing viruses in files on disks and monitoring the operation of your computer for virus-like activity.   Auburn University’s Office of Information Technology (OIT) recommends that you run the latest version of Sophos AntiVirus software (available to AU students and employees via AU Install).

-Watch for phishing scams.  Phishing scams are fraudulent e-mail messages appearing to come from legitimate sources like your bank, your Internet Service Provider, eBay, or PayPal. These messages may direct you to a fake web site and ask you for private information (e.g., password, credit card, or other account updates). Legitimate companies will never ask you to provide your user name, password, or bank account information in an e-mail message.

-Be careful what you share. Online communities such as Facebook and Twitter ask you for a user name, e-mail address, and password when you sign up. You may also be asked for more personal information, such as your birth date, occupation, home and work addresses, phone numbers, gender, marital status, and so on.  Web sites want personal information because it helps them build community and enables them to provide advertisers with demographic information about their members, but whether to share those details is your decision.

Bottom Line: the more personal information you reveal online, the more vulnerable you are to scams, spam, and identity theft.

Visit OIT’s Cybersecurity website at http://keepitsafe.auburn.edu/ for more information.  Clean and Green Day on November 20 would be a good time to follow OIT’s cybersecurity clean-up advice by changing your password settings.  Learn how and why to do that at their website.

At ALA this year, Bonnie MacEwan, Dean of Libraries, learned that there is no “magical summer” that turns an undergraduate into a graduate student.  The transition is a process and the library can assist by providing targeted instruction, designing appropriate space for them to work and collaborate or just store their materials, and assisting them in conducting literature searches.  Because many of them serve as teaching assistants, space away from undergraduates and targeted instruction is especially appreciated.

What did you learn at the last meeting you attended?  Maybe it’s a lesson your colleagues and the Libraries can benefit from.

GENERAL FLU FAQ

For links to current, credible sources of information about H1N1 influenza, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2009 H1N1 flu website at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?

The symptoms of the 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever or chills plus cough or sore throat.  Symptoms may also include body aches, headache, fatigue, runny nose, diarrhea or vomiting.

What are signs that I need to seek emergency medical care?

If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care right away: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; sudden dizziness; confusion; severe or persistent vomiting; or a high fever that is not responding to Tylenol (acetaminophen).

How can I prevent the flu?

The best ways to reduce your chances of getting the flu are to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, cover your coughs and sneezes, and avoid close contact with those who are ill.

What should I do if I think I have the flu?

If you have symptoms of the flu, you should make an appointment with the AU Medical Clinic (334-844-4422) or consult your personal physician.  If you are diagnosed with the flu by a medical provider other than the AU Medical Clinic, it is very important that you or your doctor contact the medical clinic’s flu reporting hotline at 334-844-1706.  This will help Auburn University monitor the impact of the flu on campus and be proactive with our decision making.

What precautions are being taken at the Auburn University Medical Clinic to segregate patients with possible H1N1 flu, and prevent the spread of illness?

As all patients enter the building, there is a hands-free hand sanitizer for them to use. They then approach the front desk counter and check in by filling out a screening form and are asked specifically about symptoms of influenza like illness (ILI). If they answer yes to this, they are given a mask to immediately put on, are directed WITHOUT a beeper to the flu triage area and away from the general waiting room. Along the way, they have another hands-free sanitizer to use. They are asked to sit on specific chairs in the hallway, which are positioned at least four feet apart. In this remote area, there are four assigned exams rooms (out of thirty total at the clinic), one doctor, one nurse practitioner, one registered nurse and one medical assistant, who are gowned and masked up. The exam rooms are equipped with the bare essentials, so one would not find magazines or the like in it or any other extra materials not related to dealing with ILI.

 In these rooms, the patients are screened,  a nasal flu test swab is collected if indicated and their exam is done. If a flu swab was done, then it is transported to the lab. If the result is negative and there is a need for further testing like a blood test or strep or mononucleosis test, they are sent with their mask in place to the lab for that, but return to the same area to finish seeing the provider they saw initially. If their flu test is negative and no additional tests are needed, their diagnosis and treatment plan is explained and they are sent to check out where they have another opportunity to use a hands-free sanitizer.

 If their test is positive or negative and we believe they have the flu, more questions are asked (e.g. do they live on or off campus, do they have roommates, do they share a room, where is their home and do they have someone to help them as they recover). Many times the medical clinic staff has the patient call his or her parents and speak with them. If their parents live within a reasonable distance (right now, four hours drive or less), then they are asked to consider going home. If they are in a situation where they can neither go home nor self isolate, then we offer to them to go to Auburn University’s social distancing residence area and a phone call is made to the Housing office, where arrangements are made to get them keys, arrange transport and an explanation of what they need to take with them. Once that call is completed, they are sent with their mask to check out, where another hands-free sanitizer is available before they leave the building. Should they need a prescription filled, they either go to the pharmacy located in the clinic or one in the community.

 If there are any Women’s Health patients, they proceed directly to the second floor without stopping at the front reception desk and have their own separate waiting area, staff, exam rooms and clinicians on the second floor. For patients who do not have symptoms of ILI, they are given a beeper and are asked to wait in our general waiting room. They also have the opportunity to use hands-free sanitizers and if they request a mask, which some have, they are given one.

They are seen in different exam rooms by different clinicians. They do go to the same check out area, but that is because of the building design, as there is one exit hallway. They also use the hands-free santizer in that area.

 The clinic has also put into place stringent cleaning with Cavercide of our beepers after each and every use (which right now are only being used by non-ILI patients), counter surfaces, door knobs, elevator buttons, chairs, handles and exam rooms.

INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS

I’ve been diagnosed by a doctor with the flu.  What should I do?

On-Campus Residents

First, contact your resident director or manager and let he or she know that you’ve been diagnosed with flu. 

If you live within a reasonable driving distance from campus and it’s possible to do so, return home via private vehicle and stay for the duration of your illness.  This will allow for a more comfortable recovery and minimize other students’ exposure to the virus.

If you cannot return home, your resident director or manager will make other arrangements for you during your illness to minimize exposure to others in your residence hall.  The university is currently offering temporary housing at Extension for on-campus residents who are ill and need to be separated from others.  This housing consists of two bedroom, one bathroom apartments furnished with necessary furniture.  If you are ill and are temporarily assigned to this housing facility, you will need to bring your own bed and bath linens and any other essentials.  Note that shower curtains and toilet paper are provided, and internet and cable service are available.  Additionally, Tiger Dining is providing delivered meals for those who do not have a friend or family member to provide these.

Follow directions of your medical provider.  If you have underlying medical conditions that may put you at increased risk of complications from the flu, make sure you have discussed those with your medical provider.

Self-isolate by staying away from classes and work, and limiting interactions with other people, except to seek medical care, for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicines.

Advise your professors of your illness, so that you can make arrangements for make-up work and exams as appropriate.

Students Residing Off-Campus

If you didn’t visit the AU Medical Clinic, please contact their flu reporting hotline at 334-844-1706 to report your illness.  This will help Auburn University monitor the impact of the flu on campus and be proactive with our decision making.

If your permanent residence is within a reasonable driving distance from campus and it’s possible to do so, consider returning home, via private vehicle, for the duration of your illness, especially if you have roommates in the Auburn area that are still well.  This will allow for a more comfortable recovery and minimize other students’ exposure to the virus.

Follow directions of your medical provider.  If you have underlying medical conditions that may put you at increased risk of complications from the flu, make sure you have discussed those with your medical provider.

Self-isolate by staying away from classes and work, and limiting interactions with other people, except to seek medical care, for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicines.

Advise your professors of your illness, so that you can make arrangements for make-up work and exams as appropriate.

My roommate is sick and I’m concerned that I might get sick as well.  What should I do?

If you live on campus and your roommate has been diagnosed with the flu, please ask him or her to immediately contact the resident director or manager.  If possible, your roommate should return home to his or her family via a private vehicle for the duration of his or her illness.  If this is not possible, your resident director or resident manager will work with your roommate to relocate him or her to temporary housing to minimize other students’ exposure to the virus.  You should also make sure to frequently clean regularly used areas and items such as restrooms, door knobs, and telephones.

If you live off campus and your roommate has the flu, encourage him or her to return to their permanent residence via private vehicle for the duration of the illness, if it is feasible to do so.  If not, encourage him or her to self-isolate by staying away from others in the residence as much as possible.  Make sure to clean shared items such as restrooms, telephones and doorknobs frequently.  Visit CDC’s website for cleaning recommendations (www.cdc.gov/h1n1).

Are medical excuses required if I’ve had to miss class due to the flu?

Existing class absence policies as outlined in section 10.5.1 of the Tiger Cub (http://www.auburn.edu/tigercub/files/section6_2008.pdf) are being followed at this time.  As stated in the Tiger Cub, requiring medical excuses is generally at the discretion of the individual professor.  Make sure to advise your professors of your illness to ensure you are meeting course requirements for class absences and to make arrangements for make-up work and exams as appropriate.

When will vaccinations be available, and should I get one?

According to the CDC, one of the best ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.  This year, two different flu vaccines are expected to be available, one for seasonal flu and one for H1N1 flu.

Seasonal flu

Seasonal flu vaccine is now available in the Auburn area.  The Auburn University Medical Clinic is holding seasonal flu vaccination clinics on Monday, 9/14 and Tuesday, 9/15 from 7:45 am to 1:00 pm.  Vaccine will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.  The cost is $25 by cash or check.  (However, there will be no direct cost to university employees covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, as the clinic will file for reimbursement directly.)  Additional flu vaccination clinics will be held as vaccine supply is available. 

While this vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health state that the usual seasonal influenza viruses are still expected to cause illness this fall and winter.  Individuals are encouraged to get their seasonal flu vaccine early.  According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, a single seasonal flu vaccination is expected to provide protection against seasonal flu for the duration of the flu season (through spring 2010).

H1N1 flu

Vaccine for H1N1 flu is currently in production, but is not available at this time.  The latest information from the state public health department indicates that the H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available in Alabama no earlier than mid October.  The Auburn University Medical Clinic has placed a request for vaccine, but initial supply is expected to be limited and distribution will be handled by the state and local health departments.  When available, the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine will be made available to students at the Auburn University Medical Clinic as well as mobile flu clinics on campus. Locations will be announced when vaccine is ready for distribution.

The CDC is currently recommending that the following groups receive the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine when it first becomes available: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, people age 6 months through 24 years, and people age 25 through 64 years who have underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk for complications from influenza.

Will the university suspend classes or close campus as a result of this flu outbreak?

Auburn University is monitoring this situation closely, and is in regular contact with public health and medical professionals.  We will rely heavily on the recommendations of these professionals in making critical decisions about campus operations.  Given the current prevalence and severity of the flu, one of the main factors in evaluating the decision to suspend classes will be attendance and its impact on the university’s ability to fulfill its academic mission.  Contingency plans are being reviewed and revised in case the severity and/or prevalence of the flu increases.

Where can I find information about campus events and operations?

Please visit the Auburn Web page at www.auburn.edu for up-to-date information on the status of campus activities.

INFORMATION FOR FACULTY & STAFF

I’ve been diagnosed by a doctor with the flu.  What should I do?

Follow directions of your medical provider.  If you have underlying medical conditions that may put you at increased risk of complications from the flu, make sure you have discussed those with your medical provider.

Self-isolate by staying away from work and limiting interactions with other people, except to seek medical care, for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicines.

Advise your supervisor of your illness and your anticipated date of return to work.  Keep your supervisor updated if your situation changes.

What is the university doing to minimize the spread of the flu on campus?

Auburn University has been strongly promoting hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, as recommended by CDC, since April 2009 when the H1N1 flu began to emerge in the United States.  We have done so with placement of hand sanitizer stations in strategic locations across campus, including athletic venues and common gathering areas.  We have also distributed several thousand ‘wellness kits’ to students containing hand sanitizer, tissues and tips for staying healthy and preventing the flu.  Flyers are posted throughout campus buildings reminding our campus community to frequently wash their hands, cover coughs and sneezes, and minimize contact with others who are sick with the flu.

Starting in April 2009, we have modified our routine cleaning procedures to include more frequent disinfection of common areas and items such as restrooms, doorknobs, and public telephones.  The virucide used for cleaning is registered and approved for Type A influenza disinfection by the EPA.

Additionally, we are now offering temporary housing for on-campus residents who are ill and need to be separated from others.

Will the university suspend classes or close campus as a result of this flu outbreak?

Auburn University is monitoring this situation closely, and is in regular contact with public health and medical professionals.  We will rely heavily on the recommendations of these professionals in making critical decisions about campus operations.  Given the current prevalence and severity of the flu, one of the main factors in evaluating the decision to suspend classes will be attendance and its impact on the university’s ability to fulfill its academic mission.  Contingency plans are being reviewed and revised in case the severity and/or prevalence of the flu increases.

If I have a family member at home who is sick with novel H1N1 flu, should I go to work? 

According to CDC guidance, employees who are well but who have an ill family member at home with novel H1N1 flu can go to work as usual.  You should monitor your health every day, and take everyday precautions including washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.  Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.  If you become ill, you should notify your supervisor and stay home.  If you have an underlying medical condition or are pregnant, you should contact your health care provider for advice, because you might need to receive influenza anti-viral drugs to prevent illness.  For more information, please see CDC’s General Business and Workplace Guidance for the Prevention of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Flu in Workers at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/workplace.htm.

When will vaccinations be available, and should I get one?

According to the CDC, one of the best ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.  This year, two different flu vaccines are expected to be available, one for seasonal flu and one for H1N1 flu.

Seasonal flu

Seasonal flu vaccine is now available in the Auburn area.  The Auburn University Medical Clinic is holding seasonal flu vaccination clinics on Monday, 9/14 and Tuesday, 9/15 from 7:45 am to 1:00 pm.  Vaccine will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.  The cost of the vaccine for University employees covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance will be covered by insurance.  The cost for all others is $25 by cash or check.  Additional flu vaccination clinics will be held as vaccine supply is available. 

Additionally, the Pharmaceutical Care Center is offering flu vaccination clinics for employees and their dependents over 18 years of age.  Each clinic will be limited to 50 doses of vaccine given on a first-come, first-served basis.  Vaccination clinic dates, times and locations will be announced on a weekly basis through Auburn Daily.  This week, clinics are being offered on Wednesday, 9/9 from 1:00-2:30 pm in the Telfair Peet Theatre, second floor faculty workroom and Friday, 9/11 from 9:00-10:30 am in the Ingram Hall conference room.  Auburn’s Blue Cross Blue Shield plan covers the cost of the flu vaccination.  A copy of your insurance card must be presented at the time of vaccination.  Employees and dependents not covered under the plan will be charged $25 for the flu vaccine.

While this vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health state that the usual seasonal influenza viruses are still expected to cause illness this fall and winter.  Individuals are encouraged to get their seasonal flu vaccine early.  According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, a single seasonal flu vaccination is expected to provide protection against seasonal flu for the duration of the flu season (through spring 2010).

H1N1 flu

Vaccine for H1N1 flu is currently in production, but is not available at this time.  The latest information from the state public health department indicates that the H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available in Alabama no earlier than mid October.  The Auburn University Medical Clinic has placed a request for vaccine, but initial supply is expected to be limited and distribution will be handled by the state and local health departments.  When available, the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine will be made available to students at the Auburn University Medical Clinic as well as mobile flu clinics on campus. Locations will be announced when vaccine is ready for distribution.

The CDC is currently recommending that the following groups receive the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine when it first becomes available: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, people age 6 months through 24 years, and people age 25 through 64 years who have underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk for complications from influenza.

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

What is the university doing to minimize the spread of the flu on campus?

Auburn University has been strongly promoting hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, as recommended by CDC, since April 2009 when the H1N1 flu began to emerge in the United States.  We have done so with placement of hand sanitizer stations in strategic locations across campus, including athletic venues and common gathering areas.  We have also distributed several thousand ‘wellness kits’ to students containing hand sanitizer, tissues and tips for staying healthy and preventing the flu.  Flyers are posted throughout campus buildings reminding our campus community to frequently wash their hands, cover coughs and sneezes, and minimize contact with others who are sick with the flu.  We have also been communicating regularly with our campus community about the need to stay home if ill.

Starting in April 2009, we have modified our routine cleaning procedures to include more frequent disinfection of common areas and items such as restrooms, doorknobs, and public telephones.

Additionally, we are now offering temporary housing for on-campus residents who are ill and need to be separated from others.  See below for more details on these accommodations.

What accommodations are being provided for on-campus students who are diagnosed with the flu?

Temporary housing is available at Extension for on-campus residents who are ill and need to be separated from others.  This housing consists of two bedroom, one bathroom apartments located on the west side of campus.  The units are furnished with necessary furnishings, but students who are temporarily reassigned to these units will need to bring their own bed and bath linens and any other essentials.  A shower curtain and toilet paper are provided, and cable television and internet service are also available.  Additionally, Tiger Dining is providing delivered meals for those who do not have a friend or family member to provide these.

On-campus residents who are ill and need to utilize temporary housing should notify their resident director or resident manager, who will make the necessary arrangements.  Students will be monitored during their stay to ensure their basic needs are met.  Additional security patrols are also monitoring the area while students are housed there.

Are plans in place to provide flu vaccination on campus?

According to the CDC, one of the best ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.  This year, two different flu vaccines are expected to be available, one for seasonal flu and one for H1N1 flu.

Seasonal flu

Seasonal flu vaccine is now available in the Auburn area, and flu vaccination clinics have been scheduled at the Auburn University Medical Clinic (see details above under Information for Students).  Students have been notified through This Week @ AU, and will continue to be notified as other flu vaccination clinics are scheduled.

While this vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health state that the usual seasonal influenza viruses are still expected to cause illness this fall and winter.  Individuals are encouraged to get their seasonal flu vaccine early.  According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, a single seasonal flu vaccination is expected to provide protection against seasonal flu for the duration of the flu season (through spring 2010).

H1N1 flu

Vaccine for H1N1 flu is currently in production, but is not available at this time.  The latest information from the state public health department indicates that the H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available in Alabama no earlier than mid October.  The Auburn University Medical Clinic has placed a request for vaccine, but initial supply is expected to be limited and distribution will be handled by the state and local health departments.  When available, the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine will be made available to students at the Auburn University Medical Clinic as well as mobile flu clinics on campus. Locations will be announced when vaccine is ready for distribution.

The CDC is currently recommending that the following groups receive the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine when it first becomes available: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, people age 6 months through 24 years, and people age 25 through 64 years who have underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk for complications from influenza.

Will the university consider suspending classes?  How will we be notified?

Auburn University is monitoring this situation closely, and is in regular contact with public health and medical professionals.  We will rely heavily on the recommendations of these professionals in making critical decisions about campus operations.  Given the current prevalence and severity of the flu, one of the main factors in evaluating the decision to suspend classes will be attendance and its impact on the university’s ability to fulfill its academic mission.  Contingency plans are being reviewed and revised in case the severity and/or prevalence of the flu increases.

Additionally, professors and instructors are encouraged to utilize alternate teaching methods where possible to limit in-person contact as needed depending on the prevalence of the flu in their classes.  Some classes, such as standard lectures, lend themselves to this more easily than others, such as lab sessions.

Any changes to the routine schedule of classes and/or events will be posted on the Auburn Web page at www.auburn.edu.  Students, staff and faculty will be notified via Auburn Daily and This Week @ AU.  AU ALERT may be utilized if there is a significant disruption to campus operations.

Has the university changed its cleaning procedures to address the flu?

Starting in April 2009, we have modified our routine cleaning procedures to include more frequent disinfection of common areas and items such as restrooms, doorknobs, and public telephones.  The virucide used for cleaning is registered and approved for Type A influenza disinfection by the EPA.

My student has an underlying medical condition that puts him or her at higher risk for complications from the flu.  What steps is Auburn University taking to address students with underlying medical conditions?

We are asking students with underlying medical conditions (such as immunosuppression) that may put them at higher risk for complications from the flu to register ahead of time with the Program for Students with Disabilities.  This will assist us with making recommendations on special accommodations as needed depending on local flu prevalence and severity.