“I don’t want anybody to be alarmed, but I do want everyone to be prepared,” urged President Barack Obama during a press conference about the H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu, on Tuesday.

A report made by the President’s Council of Advisory on Science and Technology estimates that the number of deaths caused by the H1N1 virus may range from 30,000 to 90,000.

It is also expected to produce infection in 30-50% of the U.S. population during 2009-2010.

“We know that we do get a second larger wave of these flu viruses in the fall and so response plans have been put in place across all levels of government,” Obama said.

Although no specific details were given about said response plans, Obama assured that progress has been made in developing a “safe and effective” vaccination against the virus and that a flu shot program will begin soon.

Although the program will be voluntary, “it will be strongly recommended,” Obama said.

With schools across the nation back in session, the potential of the virus spreading from pupil to pupil becomes a lot greater during the months of fall.

“Every American has a role in responding to this virus,” Obama said. “We need families and businesses to ensure that they have plans in place if a family member, child or a co-worker contracts the virus and needs to stay home.

“Most importantly, we need everyone to get informed about the individual risk factors and take the common sense steps that we know can make a difference.”

Because of a compromised immune system, Caitlin Anderson, geography major, is taking the virus seriously.

“I’m taking a multivitamin everyday and a packet of Emergen-C that contains 1000 mg of Vitamin C mixed with Vitamin B to boost my immune system,” Anderson said. 

Aside from multivitamins, Anderson explained that she is also washing her hands more frequently and being especially conscious about touching her eyes, nose and mouth.

Some students like Jennifer Ortega, hospitality major, see no need to panic.

“What am I supposed to do, wear a mask? I don’t see a point in getting paranoid,” said Ortega, “I’m sticking to my normal routine. I wash my hands and I don’t sit on toilets. It’s common sense.”

To assist schools in preparing for the fall flu season, the Center for Disease Control has issued a “Communication Toolkit for Institutions of Higher Education” that can be found at www.flu.gov.

The kit includes information about responding to cases of influenza as well as steps for prevention.

The CDC encourages university and college campuses to isolate sick students who reside on campus and non-resident students to remain at home.

Those most susceptible to the virus will be those with compromised immune systems, including: younger children, senior citizens, pregnant women and people with respiratory problems.

A lot can be done to prevent the virus by staying home if you’re sick, washing your hands frequently and covering your sneezes using your sleeve.

The Cerritos College Student Health and Wellness Center does not yet have any literature on the virus available, but a lot of information can be found through the World Health Organization’s Web site.