“I urge you to help by practicing preventive measures, such as covering your mouth and nose with your sleeve when you cough or sneeze and washing your hands frequently, which can prevent the spread of germs.”

So said an e-mail I received today from Harris Pastides, President of the University of South Carolina, to fully inform the University community about (as if you haven’t already guessed) swine flu. It also goes on to say: “Students who experience these symptoms are urged to remain in their residences, limit contact with others, and call their doctors.” Faculty and staff are supposed to continue working despite illness, apparently, and to forgo sleeveless garments in the process.

–Ann Bartow