So far, cases of swine flu at Oklahoma State University have been mild

STILLWATER — State health officials have confirmed swine flu in three students at Oklahoma State University, with more cases suspected.

About 10 people at OSU have been ill with flu-like symptoms over the past two weeks, with three cases sent for testing to the state Health Department. Because the samples returned positive, likely all the cases were swine flu, also known as H1N1, said Steve Rogers, director of university health services.

All of the people have recovered from the sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, headache, chills and body aches.

"It’s surprisingly mild and has a fairly rapid recovery,” Rogers said.

He said many more cases are to be expected, and persons who are ill are advised to "self-isolate” until they are well.

Rogers said dozens of students may become ill in coming weeks but since the cases have been mild, there’s no reason to panic.

He said a seasonal flu outbreak two years ago caused more serious illness on campus.

In a letter Monday to students, OSU President Burns Hargis said the university is prepared for more cases of swine flu.

"Based on the cases we have seen in the last couple of weeks, we can likely expect an increase in flu and flu-like illness among students and employees,” Hargis said.

One person at the University of Oklahoma, an employee, was confirmed with swine flu earlier this month but has since recovered, OU spokeswoman Catherine Bishop said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend colleges with swine flu cases cancel classes or events.