H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Preparedness Information

TORONTO, August 13, 2009 --

H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

H1N1 Influenza is a severe respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Normally, this type of influenza is limited to pigs; however, cases of H1N1 viruses have been reported in humans and can spread from person-to-person. More than 168 countries have reported cases of H1N1 infection and there are ongoing community level outbreaks of H1N1 Influenza in multiple parts of the world. Cases have also been reported in Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Most cases of the human H1N1 flu cases in Canada and the U.S. have been mild, and people recover fully at home without the need for medical care. Toronto Public Health is working with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and the Public Health Agency of Canada to monitor and investigate the illness.

Symptoms

H1N1 infection has been reported to cause a wide range of flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. In addition, many people also have reported nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. If you believe yourself to be infected, visit a physician or consult a health care provider and limit contact with others as much as possible to minimize spreading the virus. It is believed that the H1N1 Influenza virus is spread the same way as regular seasonal influenza; however, it is unlikely that a seasonal flu shot will provide protection against H1N1 Influenza

Pandemic Planning at York

York University has been closely monitoring outbreaks of H1N1 Influenza. As part of York University’s Pandemic Planning process, work has been undertaken by the University’s Pandemic Planning Committee to ensure the University community is provided with up-to-date information on H1N1 Influenza for the upcoming school year. Activities include:

· Installation of hand sanitizer stations in high traffic areas across campus

· Posting of handwashing posters in all washrooms and cafeterias

· Increasing awareness and infection prevention and control measures

The Pandemic Planning Committee will continue to meet throughout the school year to assess implementation of the York University Pandemic Influenza Plan as it applies to an H1N1 outbreak. York’s Office of Emergency Preparedness will also continue to closely monitor any outbreaks of H1N1 influenza and post any relevant information as it becomes available.

Personal Preparedness

As we begin a new school year, York University recommends all community members follow the City of Toronto Public Health and Public Health Agency of Canada’s measures to protect themselves against an H1N1 influenza outbreak. Individuals are urged to take similar precautions as they would take to protect themselves from a seasonal flu:

· Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and hot water, or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer

· Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze

· If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm

· Stay home if you are ill

Publications and Fact Sheets

Stop the Spread of Germs

Pandemic Influenza: What You Need to Know

York University Pandemic Influenza Plan