A total of 228 cadets were placed in separated dorm areas during the outbreak period. There were no confirmed or suspect cases among healthcare personnel.

Investigators determined the outbreak was likely propagated by a social mixing event, which has implications for colleges and universities across the country. Measures undertaken to stem the spread of the virus, quick response and mitigation efforts enacted immediately upon outbreak recognition, good communication and a public health campaign contributed significantly to the subsequent rapid decline of the outbreak.

Writing in the article, Dr. Witkop and co-authors state, "The USAFA outbreak provided a unique opportunity to gain valuable information about the natural behavior of the nH1N1 virus....Novel H1N1 is now endemic in all 50 U.S. states. University- and college-based outbreaks of nH1N1 have occurred and more can be expected this fall as students gather from diverse geographic areas, reside in dorm settings and attend mass gatherings such as football games, pep rallies and student assemblies. The combination of aggressive separation of ill BCTs, public health education and prompt implementation of healthcare infection control practices limited the duration and scope of the nH1N1 infection at USAFA. Comprehensive plans and rapid implementation are critical. Isolation procedures implemented at USAFA may not be practical in other university settings; however, preparedness planning, public health education activities and healthcare infection control practices implemented at USAFA can be adopted in other university settings."

Source: Elsevier Health Sciences