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Health advice regarding Influenza A (H1N1)
There has been extensive media coverage about Influenza A (H1N1), also called swine flu, recently. For up-to-date information about the flu — including the current phase of pandemic alert — visit the website of the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Information also is available from the Australian Government and the Queensland Government websites.
The University of the Sunshine Coast has taken some prudent measures to ensure it is prepared if a pandemic of this flu eventuates. Among them are:
- liaising with State and Federal Health Departments;
- reviewing the University’s crisis management plan;
- ensuring USC is well-stocked with protective masks and anti-bacterial hand gel;
- contacting staff and students who have been overseas recently and advising those about to travel of the risks associated with various destinations. If planning to travel you are advised to monitor the Australian Government's Smarttraveller website.
Personal hygiene
At this time, we can all help reduce the spread of any respiratory virus by being vigilant with hygiene and taking the following precautions:
- If you have recently returned from Mexico, the United States, Canada or New Zealand (or if you have any concerns following other recent travel), stay at home if you develop flu-like symptoms and consult your medical practitioner;
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, or use a disinfectant wipe or sanitiser gel (available outside bathrooms on campus);
- If displaying flu-like symptoms, consult your doctor, then stay at home;
- Always cough into a tissue and dispose of tissues quickly. Cover your cough with your arm or elbow rather than your hand;
- Use disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces like door handles, kitchen bench-tops, telephones and computer keyboards.