Pandemic influenza information
The Human Swine Influenza virus is a new influenza (flu) virus that was initially reported in April 2009 in Mexico. Cases of Human Swine Influenza have been confirmed in most other countries throughout the world by the World Health Organization.
The H1N1 pandemic is not the same as seasonal influenza. The virus is mild in most people. However, in a small proportion of people the virus causes death due to viral pneumonia and lung failure. High risk groups have been identified where the illness is more likely to cause complications, including patients with chronic respiratory conditions, pregnant women, patients who are obese (BMI >30), indigenous people and patients with chronic cardiac, neurological and immune conditions. Children and younger people have also been shown to be at increased risk of serious complications as well as rapid spreaders of the virus. Thirty percent of deaths have occurred in previously healthy people.
The pandemic is not over and to date more than 14 000 laboratory-confirmed deaths have been reported world wide. Europe and the Americas experienced a second outbreak of Swine flu in the early months of the Northern Hemisphere winter. This “second wave” of swine flu is expected to return to Australia in March/April 2010.
Vaccination against Swine flu is now available for all people including children greater than six months of age. Having the vaccination as soon as possible gives the best protection against Swine flu for each individual. To protect the vulnerable members of our community it is imperative that as many people as possible are vaccinated. The greater the number of vaccinated people, the less the virus can spread. Vaccinations are available from Student Services, General Practitioners, special vaccination clinics and during the first school term at some local schools.
Human Swine Influenza is spread from person to person by respiratory secretions e.g coughing and sneezing when in close proximity (less than one metre). Human Swine Influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get Human Swine Influenza from eating properly handled and prepared pork or pork products (CDC and WHO fact sheets). Good “flu hygiene” is important to reduce transmission.
Staff and student travel
Returning from travel
If you have an influenza-like illness, do not attend the University. Symptoms to look out for include high temperature, cough, sore throat, body aches, running nose, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes diarrhoea and vomiting. Contact your local doctor and advise the doctor of the symptoms, prior to visiting in person.
International travel
Continue to follow the University Travel Policy and Procedures available from the USQ Corporate Travel Office. Travellers kits containing masks, hand wash and anti-bacterial wipes are available from USQSafe for approved international travel.
Information is also available on the Australian Government site Smartraveller.
Education
A simple online training course is available. The username and password are available from USQSafe and have been distributed in the Pandemic Update emails.
Further information, resources and links