Sweeping across 11 states in the past two weeks, the swine flu hysteria is growing.

With cases of infection hitting so close to home, the question is: What are local schools doing to prevent it?

According to the CDC, swine influenza or "swine flu" is a respiratory disease caused by the type A virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Humans are susceptible to the virus and can become infected.

At Claflin University, which utilizes the leading provider of integrated food and facilities management services, Sodexo Inc., to supply the cafeteria's food, some minds were put at ease after Sodexho headquarters released a press release assuring patrons of its commitment to safety and following protocol.

"In response to the current swine flu situation in Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, Sodexho assures our clients and customers that we are addressing your concerns by reinforcing Sodexho's food safety and cleanliness guidelines throughout our operations. With our high standards these are an effective safeguard against transmission of the Swine Flu," the press release stated.

"Sodexho is monitoring the situation closely, following the guidelines from the CDC, FDA and will update you as the situation progresses."

Sodexho representatives for Claflin and South Carolina State University were not available for comment.

However, the Claflin University Division of Student Development and Services Health Center has issued a warning to all students urging them to protect themselves against the virus. The center provided a list of symptoms and methods to avoid contraction, such as how to wash hands thoroughly, how to properly decontaminate areas and how to avoid other sick individuals.

Still, even with press releases and pandemic warning packets, some students remain in the dark.

Claflin junior Erica Gaines wasn't even aware of the alleged pandemic.

"I don't know how I didn't know," Gaines said. "But when you think about it, that's a really scary thing. There are so many people who don't even do simple things like wash their hands!"

Other students feel the same. Claflin student Jasmine McClenton of Washington, D.C., said, "We're at a university. It's kind of like a breeding ground for illnesses."

"I won't say I feel extremely at risk, but I can't say I'm completely protected either."

Baije Allen-Nichols is a student in the Mass Communications Department at Claflin University.

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