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Influenza A (H1N1) (Swine Flu)

3/06/2009

Current situation

A new strain of influenza A (H1N1) has been identified in an outbreak originating in Mexico.  The World Health Organisation has declared this to be a public health emergency of international concern and an imminent pandemic.

Human cases have been confirmed in Vietnam.  Appropriate quarantine and treatment measures have been put in place for all these people.

For a current situation report visit the World Health Organisation website

What should I do?

See a doctor if you have an Influenza-like illness or symptoms (fever, cough and fatigue) and have travelled to Mexico, USA, Canada, Japan or Panama in the past seven days.

How do I protect myself?

1.      Wash your hands regularly - Wash your hands thoroughly in warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds and then dry them carefully for at least 20 seconds.

2.      Cover coughs and sneezes - Cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away immediately into a rubbish bin.

3.      Stay home when ill as this limits spread of disease - If you are unwell, stay home from uni or work. Let someone know that you’re sick so they can check on you.

4.    Receive a regular flu vaccine - The flu vaccine will stop you catching multiple different types of influenza at the same time. It will not prevent swine flu.

5.     Watch for further updates to the situation - Listen to local radio, watch TV and check back at this website for more updates.

Fact sheets

SOS International swine flu information

WHO FAQ sheet

Health services

RMIT Vietnam health and counselling services

Downloads

POSTER: How to wash your hands
POSTER: Cough Etiquette

Swine flu: FAQs for staff

What are the symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1), “swine flu”?

Swine flu presents like the common winter flu, with coughing, a blocked nose, sneezing, joint and muscular pains, high temperatures, nausea and vomiting. Recent overseas travel, or contact with an infected person or animal, increases your risk.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Let your manager know and go home, or remain home. Consult a doctor. Visit RMIT Vietnam health services.

What should I do if a staff member or student informs me that they are sick with swine flu?

Please notify Sharon Bush, Director, Human Resources at sharon.bush@rmit.edu.vn.

Will classes and assessment (including exams) go ahead as normal?

Yes. The University will continue with “business as usual” and will continue to monitor the situation and advise further if any changes through email to all staff and students.

How will I know if anything changes, for example, if buildings are closed or classes are cancelled?

Check this web page or your RMIT Vietnam email account for new information.

Will work colleagues be made aware of their exposure to staff who have tested positive?

Yes.  In any event that the University is made aware of a confirmed case within the University, we will contact their colleagues to inform of potential exposure.

If I am travelling overseas on University business and become sick or have my travel plans altered because of swine flu, am I covered by RMIT’s insurance?

Yes, you are.

What leave do I take if I’m sick?

Sick leave.

What leave do I take if I stay at home with a family member who is well but who has been quarantined?

You will be eligible for special leave, providing you can produce evidence that you were instructed to be quarantined for that period.

I’m worried about myself, or my loved ones – who can I talk to?

RMIT Vietnam counselling services


Swine flu: FAQs for students

What are the symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1), “swine flu”?

Swine flu presents like the common winter flu, with coughing, a blocked nose, sneezing, joint and muscular pains, high temperatures, nausea and vomiting. Recent overseas travel, or contact with an infected person or animal, increases your risk.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Let your manager know and go home, or remain home. Consult a doctor. Visit RMIT Vietnam health services.

What should I do if I’m sick or quarantined and have an exam or an assignment due?

You can apply for special consideration, providing you have an RMIT Vietnam medical impact assessment form confirming that you were incapacitated.

Will classes and assessment (including exams) go ahead as normal?

Yes. The University will continue with “business as usual” and will continue to monitor the situation and advise further if any changes through email to all staff and students.

How will I know if anything changes, for example, if buildings are closed or classes are cancelled?

Check this web page or your RMIT Vietnam email account for new information.

Will students be made aware of their exposure to other students or staff who have tested positive?

Yes.

I’m worried about myself, or my loved ones – who can I talk to?

RMIT Vietnam counselling services