A Binghamton University student on Wednesday was briefly believed to be a suspect case in the recent outbreak of H1N1 influenza A (known as swine flu), but later in the day was declassified as a suspect case and returned to his dorm. The student does not pose a risk to other students, according to a University spokeswoman.

The student, identified by a University spokeswoman as a male on-campus resident, spent Tuesday night alone in a room on campus after going to Health Services earlier in the day. A B-Line message sent at about 4:45 Wednesday afternoon alerted the campus to the possible case, but just over a half hour later, a second message was sent out reversing the earlier announcement.

The health departments of Broome County and New York state monitored the situation.

As of Thursday evening, 120 cases of swine flu have been reported from 20 states.

SOME TIPS FOR PREVENTION

Good health habits can help stop germs. To help reduce your exposure:

– Cough or sneeze into your sleeve, or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue.

– Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Waterless hand sanitizers (available in dining halls) and alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

– Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, which spreads germs.

– Avoid close contact with sick people.

– If you get sick with influenza, stay home from work or school, and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

– Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, reduce and/or eliminate alcohol use and eat nutritious food.

If you get sick:

Visit Health Services (students only) or your health care provider for medical evaluation, or call the Broome County Department of Health at (607) 778-3930.