Public Information - Information for BVC learners about H1N1 (influenza)

PUBLIC INFORMATION

Bow Valley College
H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
December 22, 2009

While over one million Albertans have been vaccinated in just six weeks, numbers have been declining recently. With this decreasing attendance at H1N1 mass immunization clinics across the province, Alberta Health Services has begun a staged closure of some mass clinics.

As some of these locations close, other options are now available to Albertans who have not yet been immunized. With the national vaccine shortage behind us, vaccine is now available through some family physicians’ offices, some local pharmacists and soon, at some AHS Public Health Clinics.

Local advertising and public service announcements will be reminding Albertans of the AHS mass clinic dates for both H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccine in their area over the coming weeks. Albertans are urged to visit the Alberta Health Services website or to call HealthLink Alberta for more information. Alternatively, individuals may contact their doctor’s office or local pharmacy to ask whether the vaccine is available there.

While one third of Albertans have already been immunized, and others have already been ill with H1N1, public health officials estimate that 60 per cent of our population are potentially still at risk of contracting the illness.

”It is extremely important that Albertans continue to come forward and be vaccinated. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from the H1N1 virus,” said Dr. Gerry Predy, Senior Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services. “By having more people vaccinated, we reduce the potential impact of the third wave of the virus. Please do your part and get immunized.”

While the majority of cases of H1N1 influenza have been mild, more than 60 Albertans have died from H1N1-related complications. “I am encouraging everyone to protect themselves and their loved ones against the H1N1 virus as soon as they can, particularly before people start getting together for the holidays,” added Dr. Andre Corriveau, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta Health and Wellness. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of the mass clinics while they are open, or ask your doctor or pharmacist if they will be providing the vaccine.”

For the most current information on the H1N1 immunization program, including remaining clinic dates and locations, go to: www.albertahealthservices.ca

Clinic dates will vary across the province, so check the website before you go.

Alternatively, contact HealthLink Alberta Toll Free – 1-866-408-5465 or Calgary – 403-943-5465.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.5 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:

- Fever
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
November 10, 2009

Targeted H1N1 immunization of priority groups expands
National vaccine shortage continues

Edmonton... On November 12 and 13, Alberta Health Services will begin offering H1N1 vaccine to more groups of individuals at high risk of developing severe illness related to influenza. As this process continues, no high risk groups will be removed from eligibility - only new groups added.

On November 12 and ongoing, new groups being added include:
People with chronic conditions aged 55 to 64 as of Nov. 1;

People with chronic conditions aged 10 to 17 as of Nov. 1.
(Combined with the group added Nov. 6, this group ranges from 5 to 17).

On November 13 and ongoing immunization groups will expand to include:
People with chronic conditions aged 45 to 54 as of Nov.1.
(Combined with the group added Nov. 12, this group will range from 45 to 64.)

When more vaccine becomes available from the manufacturer, the targeted immunization program will be expanded to include other high risk groups.

Previously announced high risk groups continue to be eligible:
both parents or one parent and one caregiver of infants under six months of age;

any children over six months and under five years as of November 1
(not required to have a chronic condition in this age group); and

pregnant women.

All Albertans who want to be immunized will have that opportunity when increased supply of the vaccine arrives from the manufacturer.

To ensure the vaccine can be provided to high risk groups at this time, no exceptions can be allowed.

For the most current information on the targeted vaccination campaign, including dates, clinic locations and groups being vaccinated, go to: www.albertahealthservices.ca

Calgary will be operating with 6 sites:
- Stampede Grandstand * NEW
- Avenida Village site
- Olympic Oval
- Brentwood Village Mall
- Whitehorn EMS station
- Richmond Road Diagnostic and Treatment Centre
H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinics will be open from 8:30AM to 8:00PM (Monday to Friday) and 8:30AM to 3:30PM (Saturday and Sunday). To confirm times as they may change check on the Alberta Health Services website http://www4.albertahealthservices.ca/Immunization/.
Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:
Fever

Cough

Muscle aches

Lethargy

Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Updatee
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
November 5, 2009

Due to the unexpected national shortage of the H1N1 vaccine, Alberta Health Services and Alberta Health and Wellness announced plans to begin targeted immunization of Albertans at high risk.

• Starting on Thursday, November 5, children aged 6 months (on day of vaccination) to under five years as of Nov. 1st will be targeted. Proof of age (Health Care card, birth certificate or other valid identification) must be provided.
• On Friday, November 6, the program will expand to include pregnant women.

At this time, the vaccine will not be available to other Albertans. When more vaccine becomes available from the manufacturer, the targeted immunization program will be further expanded to include people under 65 with chronic health conditions.

Details will be announced as more information becomes available on the vaccine supply.

All Albertans who want to be immunized will have that opportunity when increased supply of the vaccine arrives from the manufacturer. To ensure vaccine can be provided to high risk groups, no exceptions can be allowed.

This is a province wide roll-out. Calgary will be operating with 6 sites:
- Stampede Grandstand * NEW
- Avenida Village site
- Olympic Oval
- Brentwood Village Mall
- Whitehorn EMS station
- Richmond Road Diagnostic and Treatment Centre
H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinics will be open from 8:30AM to 8:00PM (Monday to Friday) and 8:30AM to 3:30PM (Saturday and Sunday). To confirm times as they may change check on the Alberta Health Services website http://www4.albertahealthservices.ca/Immunization/.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:
• Fever
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Lethargy
• Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
October 28, 2009

A fifth (5th) H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinic has been open in Calgary for Pregnant Women, Children 6 months-10 years, Seniors, and family members at:

1. Olympic Oval, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr NW

H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinics will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Monday to Friday) and 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday). The clinics will be available at the following locations and more information can be found on the Alberta Health Services website (http://www4.albertahealthservices.ca/Immunization/):

2. Avenida Village Unit 303, 12445 Lake Fraser Drive SE
3. Brentwood Village Mall Unit 302, 3630 Brentwood Road NW
4. EMS Whitehorn - North Side Entrance 100, 3705 - 35 Street NE
5. Richmond Road Diagnostic Treatment Centre 1820 Richmond Road SW Use entrance at south side of building off 20 Avenue SW. Calgary

Those who will benefit most from immunization include:

• People under 65 with chronic health conditions and their caregivers.
• Pregnant women.
• Children six months to less than five years of age and their caregivers.
• People living in remote and isolated settings or communities
• Health care workers involved in pandemic response or the delivery of essential health care services.
• Household contacts and care providers of persons at high risk who cannot be immunized or may not respond to vaccines.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Lethargy
• Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
October 26, 2009

The second wave of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is currently hitting North America and continues to be present within the Calgary area, and while we do not need to be unduly alarmed, we do need to be prepared for the potential impact. In the planning, the College continues to follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by Alberta Health and Wellness.

Alberta has enough vaccine for every Albertan who needs and wants to be immunized. Those who need it most should get it as early as possible.

H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinics will be available starting October 26, 2009 and will be open from 8:30AM to 8:00PM (Monday to Friday) and 8:30AM to 3:30PM (Saturday and Sunday). It will be available at four (4) locations and more information can be found on the Alberta Health Services website (http://www4.albertahealthservices.ca/Immunization/):

1. Avenida Village - Unit 303, 12445 Lake Fraser Drive SE
2. Brentwood Village Mall - Unit 302, 3630 Brentwood Road NW
3. EMS Whitehorn - North Side Entrance - 100, 3705 - 35 Street NE
4. Richmond Road Diagnostic Treatment Centre - 1820 Richmond Road SW
Use entrance at south side of building off 20 Avenue SW.

Those who will benefit most from immunization include:
People under 65 with chronic health conditions and their caregivers.
Pregnant women.
Children six months to less than five years of age and their caregivers.
People living in remote and isolated settings or communities
Health care workers involved in pandemic response or the delivery of essential health care services.
Household contacts and care providers of persons at high risk who cannot be immunized or may not respond to vaccines.
What is the difference between adjuvanted and non-adjuvanted vaccine?
An adjuvant is a substance that is added to a vaccine in order to boost the individual's response. It also means that less of the actual virus or "antigen" is needed to make a dose of the vaccine.

Non-adjuvanted vaccine has no "booster" element, and more antigen is needed to create this kind of vaccine.

Non-adjuvanted vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and small children but both vaccines are considered equally safe. Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health agrees with the advice of PHAC - that the adjuvant is safe, and the risks posed to pregnant women who get the flu are far, far greater than any the vaccine may pose.

Does AHW recommend the adjuvanted vaccine for pregnant women?
Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health agrees with the advice of the Public Health Agency of Canada - that pregnant women receive one dose of an unadjuvanted vaccine wherever possible.

However, in cases where unajuvanted vaccine is not available, and rates of pandemic influenza disease is high, women in the second half of their pregnancy (more than 20 weeks) should be offered adjuvanted vaccine.

Once approved by Health Canada, both H1N1 vaccines will be considered equally safe. Ultimately, this is a personal choice for women – Alberta Health Services recommends getting your shot as soon as possible.

How is H1N1 influenza virus (2009) different from seasonal influenza?
There are many strains of influenza circulating each year during the influenza season, and most people have some degree of immunity from previous exposure to related strains. The yearly influenza vaccine provides protection against the three most common strains identified during the previous season. This season, H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is expected to be the predominant strain.

H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is an entirely new strain of the influenza virus to which people do not have any immunity - and therefore is the priority for mass immunization. All Albertans over six months of age will have access to the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) influenza vaccine, expected in mid-November.

The most important factors in controlling the spread of the virus, according to Alberta Health and Wellness, are early identification and self-isolation of individuals exhibiting symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), and promotion of self-care practices such as cough/sneeze etiquette and frequent hand cleansing with soap and warm water. In areas where soap and water are not readily available, the use of hand sanitizers is recommended and Ancillary Services has a supply of approved products that departments can request.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:
Fever

Cough

Muscle aches

Lethargy

Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.
Each department has a Department Pandemic Plan folder in a central location that is accessible by employees in your department.

Some concerns have been raised regarding the potential for increased sick leave as a result of the pandemic and still requiring medical certificates. There will be a temporary suspension on the requirement for a doctor’s note for all employees presenting with flu-like symptoms (for the self-isolation period of 7days). Visit AHS for guidance on when to seek health care. Any other General Illness absences over the three casual illness days will still require a Bow Valley College Medical Certificate.

If employees or students have symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever and cough, Alberta Health and Wellness recommends that such individuals should practice self-care and self-isolate for seven days after their symptoms begin or until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours. (Symptoms such as cough may continue for longer than seven (7) days. However, if the employee or student is otherwise healthy, he or she is unlikely to still be infectious after seven (7) days following the onset of symptoms, and it is appropriate for him / her to return to work/school).

Instructors are requested to share information regarding the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) with students as more information becomes available. If your department is responsible for practicum students it is also important to ensure these students receive the information. A similar message to students will be sent out shortly.

Here is a brief Q and A regarding absences:

If one of our staff or students has a family member that is ill with either confirmed or suspect the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), but the staff member is not symptomatic, should they self-isolate and stay home or is it okay for them to come to work?
There are no issues with a staff member continuing to attend work if they are not displaying symptoms. It is only if and when a staff member begins to experience symptoms that s/he should follow the advice and guidelines of Alberta Health Services. That said, where the staff member is the primary caregiver for an individual, particularly a child, who is ill with H1N1 influenza, it is reasonable for them to request time off to care for the ill family member. Employees are eligible for Special Leave as per Faculty and AUPE collective agreements and Exempt/Management terms or reference. For information how to care for someone who is ill with influenza, click here.

If a staff member or student advises their supervisor/instructor they are ill with suspected the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) and are self-isolating either on their own or because they have been directed to do so, is the supervisor/instructor obligated to tell the rest of the staff/class about the nature of the individual’s absence?
From a health privacy standpoint, it is not appropriate for the supervisor/instructor to notify staff/class of an individual’s health status. This can violate the privacy of the individual in addition to creating unnecessary concern for the infected staff member and/or colleagues/classmates. In order to help manage concerns regarding potential exposures, the supervisor/instructor can contact the Director, Human Resources either by email bsheehan@bowvalleycollege.ca or call 403-410-1602. Where staff and/or a department is concerned about potential exposure to the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), this presents an opportunity to meet with staff collectively or individually to discuss self-care and self-isolation at a general level. This discussion can take place in the context of general concern for the staff of the department rather than singling out one individual as the cause for concern.

If a staff member or student appears to their supervisor/instructor to be symptomatic but when specifically asked, they indicate they have seen a doctor and are fine, should they be sent home to self-isolate anyway?
Can we require medical confirmation that it is okay for them to remain at work? Where an individual is clearly displaying symptoms of influenza (cough, fever, sore throat followed by muscle aches and extreme tiredness, including H1N1 influenza, they should follow the recommendations of Alberta Health Services. In any pandemic situation, effectively meeting the health care needs of the general population in terms of both urgent and continuing care is a challenge. In the scenario identified in the question, it is not reasonable to require that an individual seek medical attention simply to verify that they are capable of being at work. Alternative work arrangements may be considered and these will be done on a case-by-case basis with the reporting dean/director, supervisor and Human Resources. If there are any concerns if someone should be required to self-isolate please contact the Director, Human Resources (Bernie Sheehan) at 403-410-1602 or bsheehan@bowvalleycollege.ca.

As a supervisor, what information do I need to collect from my employee if they indicate that they have become ill with influenza-like symptoms?
In these instances the absences should be reported to Human Resources directly to bsheehan@bowvalleycollege.ca. No additional information should be collected at this time.

Are staff required to provide medical documentation if they are sick?
There will be a temporary suspension on the requirement for a doctor’s note for all employees presenting with flu-like symptoms (for the self-isolation period of 7days but any absences for flu-like symptoms over the 7 days will require the appropriate Bow Valley College medical certificate). Visit AHS for guidance on when to seek health care. Any other General Illness absences over the three casual illness days will still require a Bow Valley College Medical Certificate.

As a supervisor, how should I handle issues of absenteeism given that staff are not required to provide medical documentation?
You should follow normal sick leave procedures. Please encourage your staff to visit AHS website for information on symptoms, prevention and guidelines on when they should stay home.

If one of my staff is asked to self-isolate due to influenza-like symptoms, will they be paid and how will this time be counted against available sick time?
The absence will be recorded in Agresso according to the Faculty and AUPE collective agreements.

What do you mean when you say people who have symptoms should “self-isolate”?
Alberta Health Services advises that to self isolate means that sick individuals should avoid contact with others. The purpose of self-isolating is to help prevent transmission of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009). Visit AHS for recommendations on when to self-isolate.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
October 22, 2009

Alberta Health Services has issued information about seasonal influenza and H1N1 immunization clinics. More information will be provided by AHS on October 26, 2009. In the interim, please visit the following website for the most up-to-date provincial information:

http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/714.asp

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
October 5, 2009

The H1N1 influenza virus (2009) continues to be present within the Calgary area, and while we do not need to be unduly alarmed, we do need to be prepared for the potential impact as we move into the Fall term. In the planning, the College continues to follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by Alberta Health and Wellness.
As we move closer to the regular Fall influenza season we can expect to see an increase in absenteeism among both staff and students. Alberta Health and Wellness advises that the virus is contagious and is spread person-to-person at close contact. And further, that the virus also rests on hard surfaces such as counters and doorknobs and can be spread when people touch contaminated surfaces and unknowingly transfer the virus to their eyes, nose or mouth.

The most important factors in controlling the spread of the virus, according to Alberta Health and Wellness, are early identification and self-isolation of individuals exhibiting symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), and promotion of self-care practices such as cough/sneeze etiquette and frequent hand cleansing with soap and warm water. In areas where soap and water are not readily available, the use of hand sanitizers is recommended and Ancillary Services has a supply of approved products that departments can request.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:

Fever

Cough

Muscle aches

Lethargy

Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

Each department has a Department Pandemic Plan folder in a central location that is accessible by employees in your department.

Some concerns have been raised regarding the potential for increased sick leave as a result of the pandemic and still requiring medical certificates. There will be a temporary suspension on the requirement for a doctor’s note for all employees presenting with flu-like symptoms (for the self-isolation period of 7days). Visit AHS for guidance on when to seek health care. Any other General Illness absences over the three casual illness days will still require a Bow Valley College Medical Certificate.

If employees or students have symptoms of a respiratory infection with a fever and cough, Alberta Health and Wellness recommends that such individuals should practice self-care and self-isolate for seven days after their symptoms begin or until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours. (Symptoms such as cough may continue for longer than seven (7) days. However, if the employee or student is otherwise healthy, he or she is unlikely to still be infectious after seven (7) days following the onset of symptoms, and it is appropriate for him / her to return to work/school).

Instructors are requested to share information regarding the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) with students as more information becomes available. If your department is responsible for practicum students it is also important to ensure these students receive the information. A similar message to students will be sent out shortly.

Here is a brief Q and A regarding absences:
1) If one of our staff or students has a family member that is ill with either confirmed or suspect the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), but the staff member is not symptomatic, should they self-isolate and stay home or is it okay for them to come to work There are no issues with a staff member continuing to attend work if they are not displaying symptoms. It is only if and when a staff member begins to experience symptoms that s/he should follow the advice and guidelines of Alberta Health Services. That said, where the staff member is the primary caregiver for an individual, particularly a child, who is ill with H1N1 influenza, it is reasonable for them to request time off to care for the ill family member. Employees are eligible for Special Leave as per Faculty and AUPE collective agreements and Exempt/Management terms or reference. For information how to care for someone who is ill with influenza, click here.

2) If a staff member or student advises their supervisor/instructor they are ill with suspected the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) and are self-isolating either on their own or because they have been directed to do so, is the supervisor/instructor obligated to tell the rest of the staff/class about the nature of the individual’s absence? From a health privacy standpoint, it is not appropriate for the supervisor/instructor to notify staff/class of an individual’s health status. This can violate the privacy of the individual in addition to creating unnecessary concern for the infected staff member and/or colleagues/classmates. In order to help manage concerns regarding potential exposures, the supervisor/instructor can contact the Director, Human Resources either by email bsheehan [at] bowvalleycollege.ca or call 403-410-1602. Where staff and/or a department is concerned about potential exposure to the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), this presents an opportunity to meet with staff collectively or individually to discuss self-care and self-isolation at a general level. This discussion can take place in the context of general concern for the staff of the department rather than singling out one individual as the cause for concern.

3) If a staff member or student appears to their supervisor/instructor to be symptomatic but when specifically asked, they indicate they have seen a doctor and are fine, should they be sent home to self-isolate anyway? Can we require medical confirmation that it is okay for them to remain at work? Where an individual is clearly displaying symptoms of influenza (cough, fever, sore throat followed by muscle aches and extreme tiredness, including H1N1 influenza, they should follow the recommendations of Alberta Health Services. In any pandemic situation, effectively meeting the health care needs of the general population in terms of both urgent and continuing care is a challenge. In the scenario identified in the question, it is not reasonable to require that an individual seek medical attention simply to verify that they are capable of being at work. Alternative work arrangements may be considered and these will be done on a case-by-case basis with the reporting dean/director, supervisor and Human Resources. If there are any concerns if someone should be required to self-isolate please contact the Director, Human Resources (Bernie Sheehan) at 403-410-1602 or bsheehan [at] bowvalleycollege.ca.

4) As a supervisor, what information do I need to collect from my employee if they indicate that they have become ill with influenza-like symptoms? In these instances the absences should be reported to Human Resources directly to bsheehan [at] bowvalleycollege.ca. No additional information should be collected at this time.

5) Are staff required to provide medical documentation if they are sick? There will be a temporary suspension on the requirement for a doctor’s note for all employees presenting with flu-like symptoms (for the self-isolation period of 7days but any absences for flu-like symptoms over the 7 days will require the appropriate Bow Valley College medical certificate). Visit AHS for guidance on when to seek health care. Any other General Illness absences over the three casual illness days will still require a Bow Valley College Medical Certificate.

6) As a supervisor, how should I handle issues of absenteeism given that staff are not required to provide medical documentation? You should follow normal sick leave procedures. Please encourage your staff to visit AHS website for information on symptoms, prevention and guidelines on when they should stay home.

7) If one of my staff is asked to self-isolate due to influenza-like symptoms, will they be paid and how will this time be counted against available sick time? The absence will be recorded in Agresso according to the Faculty and AUPE collective agreements.

8) What do you mean when you say people who have symptoms should “self-isolate”? Alberta Health Services advises that to self isolate means that sick individuals should avoid contact with others. The purpose of self-isolating is to help prevent transmission of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009). Visit AHS for recommendations on when to self-isolate.

For more information please go to the Alberta Health and Wellness website - www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Updatee
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
September 4, 2009
www.albertahealthservices.ca/13039.htm

H1N1 Virus Update
(Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus)
August 25, 2009

The H1N1 influenza virus (2009) has been reported worldwide and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic on June 11, 2009. The virus is now referred to as “pandemic H1N1 influenza virus” or "Pandemic (H1N1) 2009." Governments around the world and the WHO are working together to monitor and respond to this situation.
What does WHO raising the pandemic level to Phase 6 mean for Albertans?
The Phase 6 designation is measure of how widespread the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus is around the world. • It is not indicative of how severe the disease is. The risk level to the general public remains low.

• Alberta has a pandemic plan that has been unfolding in response to the levels of pandemic alert.

• The province’s health system is on alert and Albertans are asked to take precautions against the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus to help stop the spread of infection.

• Check out www.health.alberta.ca/health-info/influenza-H1N1-questions.html for a Pandemic H1N1 common questions.

What is Bow Valley College doing in response to the pandemic?
Bow Valley College Pandemic Core Team has been meeting since the potential of the pandemic was first released by the World Health Organization. The Bow Valley College Pandemic Plan is being followed and updated as necessary.

Help prevent the spread of pandemic H1N1 influenza virus.

• If ill, stay home from work, school and avoid public places.

• One of the best ways to prevent influenza is to get the influenza vaccine every year. o A vaccine for the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus is expected to be available by November 2009.

• Clean hands frequently, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve rather than your hand.

• Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after shaking hands or touching hard surfaces like counters and door handles or other surfaces that may contain influenza and other viruses.

• Stay at least two metres (six feet) away from people who are experiencing influenza-like symptoms. This is called social distancing and includes staying away from crowds when influenza is circulating in the community

• Other steps to keep yourself healthy include:

- Healthy eating;
- Maintaining an active lifestyle; and,
- Getting enough rest and sleep.

What to do if you think you are sick with the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection with a sudden fever and cough:
• Practice self-care and stay home from work or school for seven days from the start of your symptoms or until you are able to resume daily activities, whichever is shorter.

• Rest and avoid close contact with others until your symptoms have gone away.

• Read about influenza self-care www.health.alberta.ca/health-info/influenza-self-care.html

• Read “Influenza – What Can You Do?” www.health.alberta.ca/health-info/influenza-easy-to-understand.html (Written in plain language.)

If your symptoms are getting worse or not improving:

• Call Health Link Alberta or your health care provider for advice.

• If you require a medical appointment, be sure to tell them about your symptoms before going.

• If your health care provider sends you home, you should stay at home for seven days from the start of your symptoms or until you are able to resume daily activities, whichever is shorter.

If you later become short of breath or develop other symptoms of severe illness:

• Contact your health care provider or go to an Emergency Department.

• If you require Emergency Department care, immediately tell the triage nurse that you have respiratory symptoms and if you have had contact with someone who is sick with the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus.

Call Health Link Alberta

• Toll-free 1-866-408-5465

• In Calgary, call 403-943-5465

• Health Link Alberta website www.healthlinkalberta.ca

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, especially a fever, it is recommended that you remain at home until you are well. If your symptoms are serious it is highly recommended that you consult with your doctor as soon as possible. Alberta doctors are the best resource to assess your condition and determine if you may have been exposed to this pandemic H1N1 influenza virus. Please contact HealthLink Alberta (403-943-5465 or 1-866-408-5465) for advice before visiting a physician’s office, medicentre, or emergency room.

For the latest Government of Canada information on pandemic H1N1 influenza virus, visit www.fightflu.ca

EARLIER NOTIFICATIONS

Bow Valley College will continue to monitor information about the Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus situation closely and will appropriately notify BVC learners of any important updates and recommendations made by community health authorities as this information becomes available.

For further information about the Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus, check out the websites for the Public Health Agency of Canada, Alberta Health and Wellness, the Centre for Disease Control (in the U.S.A.) and Alberta Health Services.

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