Influenza A(H1N1)v Information
The Institute has a plan in place to respond to the potential threat from Influenza A(H1N1)/Swine Flu to the health of students and staff, and the operation of the Institute. The management of this plan is initially overseen by the Senior Management Team.
This site will keep you up-to-date with the precautions and actions the college is taking to mitigate the impact of Influenza. Please check regularly for updates.
CURRENT HSE MEDICAL ADVICE
Preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of influenza or flu.
You should always:
• Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Place used tissues in a bin as soon as possible
• Ensure everyone washes their hands regularly with soap and water
• Clean surfaces regularly to get rid of germs
If you think you have influenza, please avoid close contact with others, stay at home and seek medical advice by phoning your GP.
LATEST INFORMATION ON INFLUENZA A(H1N1)
The following websites provide the some of the most up-to-date information on Influenza A(H1N1) in Ireland and worldwide.
Ireland
• Health Services Executive
• Health Protection Surveillance Centre
• Department of Health and Children
Worldwide
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have influenza/flu symptoms, what should I do?
A: If you develop influenza symptoms do not come to work, stay at home and call your GP. He/she will issue further advice, including when you should return to work. Inform your manager/Head of School/Head of Function as soon as possible regarding your condition.
Q: I have come into contact with a person who has influenza, what should I do?
A: Do not panic. Go about your normal activities. If you are a member of a high-risk group (have diabetes, chronic respiratory, heart, liver neurological disease, Immunosuppressed, aged 65 years or older, are on medication for asthma, severely obese or pregnant) and the contact is confirmed as a case of Influenza A(H1N1) after testing, call your GP for advice. If at any stage you develop influenza like symptoms, call your GP for advice.
Q: A colleague has influenza, should I come to work?
A: If a colleague has been diagnosed with Influenza or is suspected to have it, do not panic. There is no need to avoid work. Come to work as normal. If you are a member of a high-risk group call your GP for advice. If at any stage you develop influenza like symptoms call your GP for advice.
Q: Should I wear a facemask?
A: No. The wearing of masks by healthy individuals (i.e. the general public) who are not involved in caring for people who are ill is not recommended. The available scientific evidence does not suggest that this is an effective preventive measure when used in this way.
•
Guidelines for staff
(PDF)
•
Guidelines for staff - high risk groups
(PDF)
•
Guidelines for students
(PDF)
