•  WLOS :: H1N1
FLORIDA - There are hundreds of cases of Swine Flu on Florida college campuses, and we are still weeks away from getting the vaccine.

The University of West Florida isn't testing specifically for the Swine Flu, but the Director of Communications says since school began on August 24, they have seen 42 students with flu-like symptoms.

As capitol reporter Whitney Ray tells us, it may get worse, as college students will probably be one of the last groups to receive the vaccine.

Florida State Freshman Kyle Wilkes is living uncomfortably close to some sick students.

Kyle Wilkes / FSU Freshman New York: "Right next door, they actually had a note on the door that said 'Swine Flu--do not enter.'"

There have been 336 cases of swine flu on FSU's campus since the start of the school year. Florida A & M has reported 80. There are 450 possible cases at the University of Florida.

Whitney Ray / Reporter: "There are even a few unconfirmed cases on the University of Florida's football team. Which could be the top ranked Gator biggest opponent this fall."

Last week Wakulla High School canceled its football game because 15 of its players were out with the Swine Flu. Quarterback Coach Joshua Manning says his team is bracing for the worst.

Joshua Manning / QB Coach: "Eventually they are saying all of them will end up getting sick, and we're going to go to Styrofoam cups so you know they are not touching each other."

A vaccine is expected by mid-October, but students will be one of the last groups to receive the shot.

Susan Smith / Dept. of Health: "First on the list is pregnant women, but it is important to stress that we do not anticipate a shortage here in the state of Florida."

So far, 92 Floridians have died from the H1N1 virus. There is no confirmation if any of the victims were college students.

The Department of Health is advising college students to get a seasonal flu shot right now, even if they plan to get a Swine Flu shot later on.Swine Flu Moving Into Florida's College Campuses
The nation reacts as the swine flu spreads throughout the United States.  Keep up to date on the latest information and what you need to do to keep your family safe.

Posted: Wednesday, September 23 2009, 07:55:33 PM

   
     
 
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   •  WESTERN NC WEATHER
  41 °

 

Tonight: Variably cloudy. Low: 42-Asheville, 48-Upstate.

Sunday: Mostly cloudy. Scattered P.M. showers. High: 59-Asheville, 65-Upstate.

Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy. Scattered showers and thundershowers. Gusty winds. Low: 43-Asheville, 45-Upstate.

Chief Meteorologist Jason Boyer
 
     

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