GAINESVILLE -- One of the biggest threats Florida could face this season won't come on the field.

Universities are on high alert as the swine flu virus continues to spread, and a locker room outbreak could put a team out of commission.

As of Wednesday, the Mississippi football team had 22 players dealing with flu-like symptoms, and although it's too early to tell if swine flu is the culprit, star running back Dexter McCluster was hospitalized Tuesday night from his illness.

The Rebels probably will not be affected on the field because they have a bye this weekend, but the potential effects of a flu outbreak have UF coach Urban Meyer concerned.

``I'm scared to death of it,'' Meyer said. ``When a staff member isn't feeling well, you tell them to close their door.

``It's not being rude, but you have to win a game.''

He added that linebacker Brandon Hicks missed practice because of dehydration, but he wasn't sure if it was the flu.

In addition, offensive lineman Nick Alajajian is battling illness and has lost 10 pounds.