Suspected Swine Flu Cases Top 150 At University Of Maryland

VIA WJLA:

COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Health officials on the campus of the University of Maryland report more than 150 cases of the flu – many which may be H1N1, or swine flu.

Medical professionals suspect it’s likely that a good number of the students who have gotten sick with flu-like symptoms probably have H1N1, although the cases have been mild. But with so many students at the school, there is a concern that H1N1 could spread to a lot of people.

“It’s kind unfortunate to have to live in such close proximity to so many people. If I could be home right now that would be cool,” said student Charlie Lewitt.

Life as a student at UMD in College Park carries an additional burden beyond academic and social expectations. “It’s definitely no fun when you are in class and somebody is coughing a lot.”

The clinical director at the university’s health center tells ABC 7/NewsChannel 8 that since classes began August 31st, the center has seen around 20 students a day with symptoms that are likely H1N1.

“I guess the biggest thing is keeping people from getting to scared about it because that’s when everybody panics,” said freshman Pete Lauer.

Lauer says a resident assistant told him a number of co-eds living in his dorm, Centreville Hall, are sick. He and others are not surprised.

“Your so close to other people all the time, it’s bound to happen eventually,” said student Greg Maines.

H1N1 has health experts concerned because it has proved to be deadly and unpredictable. But university officials are quick to point out that those who have come down with typical symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, nausea – have been more mild than your typical seasonal flu strain.

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