H1N1 Influenza
Royal Roads University is committed to the safety of learners, staff, faculty and visitors and is monitoring the progress of the H1N1 influenza virus and taking direction from local health officials.
Influenza and other respiratory infections are transmitted from person to person when germs enter the nose and/or throat. Coughs and sneezes release germs into the air where they can be breathed in by others. Germs can also rest on hard surfaces like counters and doorknobs, where they can be picked up on hands and transmitted to the respiratory system when someone touches his or her mouth and/or nose.
Minimizing risks is key:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after you cough or sneeze
- Cough and sneeze into your arm or sleeve
- Keep your hands away from touching your face
- Keep your immune system healthy (regular exercise, good nutrition, Vitamin D3 supplements and rest)
- Do not share personal items
Symptoms:
Sudden onset of any one or more of these symptoms: cough, fever, body aches, nausea/vomiting and/or diarrhea
What to do if you are ill:
- Stay home and minimize contact with others
- Rest
- Drink fluids
- Take Tylenol as needed for aches
You should seek medical advice if:
- You have these symptoms and have recently travelled
- You have a high fever (over 38.5 C. or 101 F) for over 24 hours
- You cough up thick, coloured or bloody sputum
- You are short of breath or have persistent wheezing
- You have chest pain
- You are unable to swallow fluids due to throat swelling
Contact your physician's office for further instructions and to alert them of your health status and prepare for your arrival.
Individuals in B.C. who do not know whether their condition would warrant an emergency room visit can first call Health Link BC at 8-1-1 or visit the HealthLink BC Home Page.
For further updates and resources about H1N1 flu virus (human swine flu), see www.fightflu.ca, a website created by the Public Health Agency of Canada in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments.
