H1N1

As we continue with the school year, we wanted to remind you that the potential for the H1N1 virus to re-emerge this fall/winter still exists.  We would like to share some information and tips that we hope will be helpful to you in the coming months.

To reduce the spread of H1N1 there are certain measures – such as hand hygiene, cough/sneeze etiquette, staying home when ill, and appropriate environmental cleaning practices – that can prevent or reduce the spread of H1N1.

We ask that you monitor yourself for symptoms, which may include acute onset of respiratory symptoms with fever and cough and one or more of the following symptoms: sore throat, muscle aches, joint pain, or weakness. In children under 5, gastrointestinal symptoms may also be present and fever may not be prominent. It is important to note that not all respiratory illnesses are H1N1 and the determination should be made by an appropriate medical practitioner.

Early recognition and separation can reduce the risk of transmission to others. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the above symptoms and report symptoms to the College’s Health Office (and absenteeism to your supervisor as you normally would).

Hand hygiene is one of the most important measures for preventing the spread of infections. Practise hand hygiene frequently: either washing your hands with soap and running water for at least 15 seconds or, if hand washing facilities are not available, using an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Such cleaner should only be used in situations when running water and soap are not available and hands are not visibly dirty.

At a minimum, please practise proper hand hygiene:

• Before and after eating

• Before and after food preparation

• After using the toilet

• After sneezing or coughing

• After wiping your nose

• Before and after using shared computers and other equipment

• After riding public transit

• After recreational activities

Respiratory etiquette can also play an important role in reducing the spread of H1N1. You are encouraged to:

• Cough and sneeze into your sleeve (not your hands) or to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing

• Dispose of used tissues in a garbage can

• Perform hand hygiene after disposing of tissues

It is important that everyone be aware of the signs and symptoms of influenza-like illness. If you develop these symptoms, you should stay home until you no longer have a fever and are feeling well. You should also report your illness and symptoms to the College Health Office.

Please read the linked flowchart that will help you decide what to do if you don't feel well. Be sure you let your teacher/supervisor, and the College Health Office know when you have these symptoms.

Thank you for helping all of us stay healthy.

 Note: These guidelines have been developed based on the best evidence available. As more information becomes available, these guidelines will be updated.

Source: Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care – Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza Virus in Colleges and Universities; issued September 9, 2009