Update on H1N1 Flu – May 1, 2009

The University continues to closely monitor the most current information about the continuing spread of H1N1 flu and to consult with local health authorities and experts.

I would like to provide the Queen's community with advice on questions that are being asked across campus.

1. What do we do about campus events that are already planned?

Proceed as you have planned for now.

Local health authorities have not advised the University to recommend postponing or altering any planned events on campus. Should this situation change, we will immediately inform the community via email and www.queensu.ca/pandemic

Anyone planning an event on campus (camp, meeting, seminar etc…) should:

• stay up-to-date about flu-related developments, including travel advisories
• inform all visitors of the need to be on the alert for flu-like symptoms, especially among those who have traveled from areas affected by H1N1
• disseminate information to participants about ways individuals can reduce the risk of contracting infectious diseases

Specific information and resources for event organizers is posted at www.queensu.ca/pandemic/eventplanners, and should be checked daily leading up to your event.

2. What should we do if we have recently been in an area affected by H1N1 or if we are expecting visitors to campus who have recently been in an area affected by H1N1?

Currently local health authorities are advising there are no restrictions, requirements for quarantine, or the need to keep away from work, school or public places, if individuals traveling from areas where H1N1 has been detected are symptom-free.

However, it is imperative that individuals who have traveled from any area affected by H1N1, within the last two weeks, be on alert for these following influenza-like symptoms:  

• fever,
• headache,
• cough,
• muscle aches,
• sore throat,
• weakness or fatigue,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea, or
• chills.

Anyone who has traveled from any area affected by H1N1 within the last two weeks and is experiencing these symptoms should contact TeleHealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 before contacting their healthcare provider.  

 3. What should we do if we are planning university-related travel to Mexico?

Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) has issued a warning against non-essential travel to Mexico.

Accordingly, under the University’s Off-Campus Activity Safety Policy, travel to Mexico cannot be approved in these circumstances. Please consult the policy for more details.

Reducing the Risk:

You can decrease your risk of getting H1N1 swine influenza by being vigilant in taking regular measures to prevent the spread of any infectious disease:

1. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.  
2. Properly wash your hands as frequently as possible, for at least 20-seconds every time you wash them.

Please also check www.queensu.ca/pandemic regularly for up-to-date information.

Regards,

Dan Langham
Director
Environmental Health & Safety