TROY, N.Y., Oct 12, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- A Troy, N.Y., university is
directing its students to knock off post-football drinking games because alcohol
does not kill the H1N1 flu, officials said.
In a message to students, officials at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute said the
Troy campus had experienced 21 cases of H1N1 flu and 14 students are currently
sick.
"Our caseload is still low, but it is steadily growing. It is important to note
that we have linked several of the cases to specific social events on campus,
such as football games and weekend parties," Dr. Leslie Lawrence, medical
director of the school's health center, said in the message. "Unfortunately,
some of our current cases were apparently contracted during a weekend drinking
game. Do not share drinks. Alcohol does not kill the virus or prevent its spread
from person to person. While it might seem fun over the weekend, it will not be
enjoyable when you and your friends are sick and missing class or midterm
examinations."
During university events, students are advised to continue to wash hands, avoid
close contact with others and never share cups or utensils, because people can
catch the flu from someone who does not yet appear to be ill, Lawrence said.
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Copyright 2009 by United Press International