After Monday night’s all-campus meeting discussing the issue, the Baker University community is one step closer in preparation of the looming possibility of a pandemic flu, be it avian or not.
Director of Student Health Services Ruth Sarna estimated 400 students and Baker staff showed up for the meeting. She said it was mandatory for all greeks, but would have liked to see more faculty, staff and students living residence halls.
“I’m hoping the people that were there will spread the news,” Sarna said.
Junior Martin Ferree thought the event was poorly advertised and said he didn’t know about the event until he was told Monday night at his fraternity meeting.
Freshman Stephanie Brockmann said she doesn’t think a pandemic of any kind is that big of a threat at this point, although it could be.
“I guess the fact it hasn’t really hit the United States makes it hard to really worry about,” Brockman said.
Sarna agreed that something not yet in the area is easier to ignore.
“Unless something occurs close to home, we don’t see the need to worry about it,” Sarna said. Freshman Nick Bailey said the presentation was a good way to inform people that, though the avian flu hasn’t reached the United States, it could easily reach this side of the world very quickly and what would happen if it did.
“I think it just lets everyone know what’s going on and little things that we can do to prevent it,” Bailey said.
Sarna said the presentation focused on raising awareness of ways to slow the spread of the feared pandemic with simple things like washing hands, coughing into sleeves and isolating yourself if you do get sick. It also emphasized the need for the school and area businesses to plan for the inconvenience of the virus.
“What they’re saying is that a fourth or a third of your work force and student body may be ill with it,” Sarna said.
Brockman said the forum focused on things that everyone needs to have a little knowledge about. While the speaker covered everything well, she didn’t go that in depth.
“Some of it was common sense about taking care of yourself,” Brockmann said.
Sarna said the frightening thing about the virus is that it’s a new strain that no one’s immune system is ready for. She said it’s important to start working out a plan early so that people don’t feel underprepared.
Members of the planning committee have been meeting since May and have already purchased things like extra gloves, masks and medications like Tylenol in preparation. Sarna said they meet once each month to discuss things like in what situations it would be necessary for the university to cancel classes.