Swine Flu Update
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This web page is to keep staff and students up-to-date with the latest public health advice on the swine flu outbreak in Australia and the measures the University is taking, in line with the latest public health advice, to prevent infection and support the wider effort to contain the spread of the virus in the community.
Useful Link
UNSW Health Service
Useful Link
UNSW Health Service
2 October 2009
H1N1 vaccination clinic at UNSW
The national roll out of the H1N1 vaccine commenced this week. The University Health Service has now received its doses and will be running a bulk-billed vaccination clinic for staff and students each Wednesday from 12noon to 2pm until further notice.
The first clinic (Wednesday 7 October) will be for priority groups (see below for more details) and then available to all staff and students. Appointments can be made by email unihealth@unsw.edu.au.
Clinic at main campus
The University’s clinic will be at the University Health Service, Ground Floor Quadrangle Building, Kensington campus.
The clinic will be staffed by a GP and Immunisation nurse. To avoid waste and ensure safety, the clinic staff will prepare all doses from each multi-dose-vial prior to seeing each group.
The service will be covered by Medicare and Overseas Student Health Cover.
The UNSW flu vaccination clinics earlier this year were very popular. To reduce queues, appointments for the immunisation clinic are being made by email unihealth@unsw.edu.au. Confirmation, a consent form and information about the vaccine will be sent by return email.
Priority groups
The aim of the Commonwealth Government's program is to provide free doses to all who wish to be vaccinated. In the initial stages of the roll out, priority will be given to those who are at the highest risk from H1N1.
The priority groups for the vaccine are:
The national roll out of the H1N1 vaccine commenced this week. The University Health Service has now received its doses and will be running a bulk-billed vaccination clinic for staff and students each Wednesday from 12noon to 2pm until further notice.
The first clinic (Wednesday 7 October) will be for priority groups (see below for more details) and then available to all staff and students. Appointments can be made by email unihealth@unsw.edu.au.
Clinic at main campus
The University’s clinic will be at the University Health Service, Ground Floor Quadrangle Building, Kensington campus.
The clinic will be staffed by a GP and Immunisation nurse. To avoid waste and ensure safety, the clinic staff will prepare all doses from each multi-dose-vial prior to seeing each group.
The service will be covered by Medicare and Overseas Student Health Cover.
The UNSW flu vaccination clinics earlier this year were very popular. To reduce queues, appointments for the immunisation clinic are being made by email unihealth@unsw.edu.au. Confirmation, a consent form and information about the vaccine will be sent by return email.
Priority groups
The aim of the Commonwealth Government's program is to provide free doses to all who wish to be vaccinated. In the initial stages of the roll out, priority will be given to those who are at the highest risk from H1N1.
The priority groups for the vaccine are:
- Pregnant women
- Children over 10 years and adults with underlying chronic medical conditions
- Individuals with moderate to severe obesity (BMI>35)
- Health care and community care workers
- Indigenous people
- Children over 10 in special schools
- Parents and guardians of children 0-6 months.
More information about the H1N1 vaccination program is available at the Department of Health website.
30 September 2009
The new H1N1 vaccine is being delivered to general practices across Australia this week.
The University Health Service expects to receive its supplies in the next few days and will be running a bulk-billed vaccination clinic for staff and students. Further updates will be provided.
The University Health Service expects to receive its supplies in the next few days and will be running a bulk-billed vaccination clinic for staff and students. Further updates will be provided.
20 July 2009
As you would be aware, over the last few weeks there has been a rapid increase in the reported number of confirmed cases of swine flu.
As this period has coincided with the mid-semester break, there has not been such a high risk of transmission within the UNSW community. However, with the start of the next semester the risk will escalate and it is important to reinforce the message that anyone with flu-like symptoms should stay away from campus until they are well.
While the flu is widespread, its impact is still mostly mild. So while there is a significant risk of getting the flu through everyday contact, it does not mean that if a well individual gets the flu there will be a high risk of death or complications.
The alert level for the pandemic remains in the Protect Phase, which focuses on early access to treatment for those at risk of severe illness and minimising the spread of the disease.
This level of alert will not change unless the virus changes and there is a significant increase in the death rate.
The focus at this stage is on:
• protecting the vulnerable e.g. pregnant women and those with chronic illness
• getting prompt medical care for the vulnerable or those with early severe illness
• maintaining the functions of society - schools, universities, public transport, banks etc
Anyone with an acute respiratory illness and a fever should stay at home until they have not had a fever for 24 hours (this means a 24 hour fever-free period without medications such as paracetamol and cold and flu tablets).
Advice for managers
Workplaces should respond by allowing and encouraging anyone with an acute respiratory illness and a fever to stay at home (as outlined above), and plan for absenteeism and the associated short notice and inconvenience. This would include having communication channels established (phone numbers, emails) as well as arrangements for delegation and substitution. I would urge managers to formally address this. If it is not addressed, then it more likely that ill staff will turn up to work and make others sick.
How do you look after yourself?
The best protection is for individuals to continue to practice good hygiene (hand washing, covering your sneeze) and to avoid contact with sick people.
Extra precautions
Those in a vulnerable group may wish to take extra precautions, such as:
• when available, choosing online rather than face to face participation
• car pooling (rather than public transport) there is no general recommendation to wear masks for prevention, unless you have close contact with someone ill.
NSW health has additional information for groups at increased risk:
Pregnant women
People at risk of severe illness this winter
Seeking medical attention
If you are sick you should get medical attention based on how likely you are to have severe illness or how sick you are.
If you have severe illness you should go to your local hospital.
If you are in any of the following groups, even with mild symptoms, then medical attention within the first 48 hours is recommended:
• Chronic illness e.g. diabetes, heart disease
• Chronic respiratory problems e.g. asthma
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
The University Health Service
Students and staff are encouraged to see their normal GP. The University Health Service has a Flu Clinic operating Monday to Friday and students are bulk billed. Phone 9385 5424 for an appointment.
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
Director of University Health Services
Useful Links
Travel - DFAT Smart Traveller Swine Flu update
NSW Health - Swine flu H1N1 Influenza 09
NSW Health - Advice to businesses
Anti-influenza medication
Information for pregnant women
Caring for someone with the flu
As this period has coincided with the mid-semester break, there has not been such a high risk of transmission within the UNSW community. However, with the start of the next semester the risk will escalate and it is important to reinforce the message that anyone with flu-like symptoms should stay away from campus until they are well.
While the flu is widespread, its impact is still mostly mild. So while there is a significant risk of getting the flu through everyday contact, it does not mean that if a well individual gets the flu there will be a high risk of death or complications.
The alert level for the pandemic remains in the Protect Phase, which focuses on early access to treatment for those at risk of severe illness and minimising the spread of the disease.
This level of alert will not change unless the virus changes and there is a significant increase in the death rate.
The focus at this stage is on:
• protecting the vulnerable e.g. pregnant women and those with chronic illness
• getting prompt medical care for the vulnerable or those with early severe illness
• maintaining the functions of society - schools, universities, public transport, banks etc
Anyone with an acute respiratory illness and a fever should stay at home until they have not had a fever for 24 hours (this means a 24 hour fever-free period without medications such as paracetamol and cold and flu tablets).
Advice for managers
Workplaces should respond by allowing and encouraging anyone with an acute respiratory illness and a fever to stay at home (as outlined above), and plan for absenteeism and the associated short notice and inconvenience. This would include having communication channels established (phone numbers, emails) as well as arrangements for delegation and substitution. I would urge managers to formally address this. If it is not addressed, then it more likely that ill staff will turn up to work and make others sick.
How do you look after yourself?
The best protection is for individuals to continue to practice good hygiene (hand washing, covering your sneeze) and to avoid contact with sick people.
Extra precautions
Those in a vulnerable group may wish to take extra precautions, such as:
• when available, choosing online rather than face to face participation
• car pooling (rather than public transport) there is no general recommendation to wear masks for prevention, unless you have close contact with someone ill.
NSW health has additional information for groups at increased risk:
Pregnant women
People at risk of severe illness this winter
Seeking medical attention
If you are sick you should get medical attention based on how likely you are to have severe illness or how sick you are.
If you have severe illness you should go to your local hospital.
If you are in any of the following groups, even with mild symptoms, then medical attention within the first 48 hours is recommended:
• Chronic illness e.g. diabetes, heart disease
• Chronic respiratory problems e.g. asthma
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
The University Health Service
Students and staff are encouraged to see their normal GP. The University Health Service has a Flu Clinic operating Monday to Friday and students are bulk billed. Phone 9385 5424 for an appointment.
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
Director of University Health Services
Useful Links
Travel - DFAT Smart Traveller Swine Flu update
NSW Health - Swine flu H1N1 Influenza 09
NSW Health - Advice to businesses
Anti-influenza medication
Information for pregnant women
Caring for someone with the flu
19 June 2009
Swine Flu - PROTECT phase
Q and A
The Federal Government has created a new pandemic response called PROTECT. This follows WHO advice for individual countries to tailor their pandemic response to local circumstances.
The swine flu is not as severe as envisaged when Australian pandemic plans were written in 2008. Overall, it is of moderate severity, and the response has been adjusted to the risk the virus poses to the community. It is expected that the PROTECT phase will continue while the disease continues to be mild in most cases or until a vaccine is available.
The focus of the PROTECT phase is on early access to treatment of those at risk of severe illness. The public will play an important role in minimising the spread of the disease by the continuation of good hand and respiratory hygiene, staying at home if unwell and being aware and alert to the fact that this disease could have a more serious impact on vulnerable groups, according to the Department of Health and Ageing.
Where do you go if you get a flu-like illness?
If you have a severe flu-like illness, go to your local hospital emergency department. Otherwise see your GP.
When should I see my GP?
Within 48 hours of the onset of illness, in particular if you are at risk of severe illness.
How do I know if I am at risk of severe illness?
So far, the disease is mild in most cases. You may be at risk of severe illness if you are:
• Pregnant
• Have chronic underlying disease, e.g. chronic asthma, heart disease
• Immunosuppressed
• Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islander background
• Morbidly Obese
What about travel and contact with swine flu?
The decision about where to go (GP or Hospital) does not depend on travel or contact with swine flu. If your illness is severe go to the hospital. If it is not at the severe stage, go to your GP.
What about antivirals, e.g.Tamiflu?
GPs are being provided with supplies of free antivirals for patients at risk of severe illness, as defined by strict criteria. They can provide a prescription to other patients to buy at a pharmacy.
How long should I stay at home?
Until you are well, in particular have no fever. This time will vary with individuals and according to treatment.
Who do I need to inform at UNSW?
It is important to get medical advice, treatment and a certificate to cover your absence due to illness. Inform your supervisor using your normal sick leave protocols. Students inform their course co-coordinators or supervisors in the normal way.
Should I inform the University Flu Manager?
There is no routine obligation for you to inform the University Flu Manager, Dr Jacinta Crimmins.
Notification from colleges and childcare centres is still encouraged ( j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au )
Will there be a Flu Clinic at UNSW?
Yes. All staff and students are encouraged to see their regular GP and not to stay at Uni if unwell. There will be a Flu Clinic at the University Health Service for staff, students, & those in residential colleges from 10.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday (starting Monday June 22. Please phone 9385 5425 before attending, or email unihealth@unsw.edu.au.
The University will continue to monitor the advice from WHO, Department of Health and Ageing and NSW Health and inform you and update policies accordingly.
Links
DoHA "Protect Phase"
NSW Health
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
University Flu Manager
j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au
Q and A
The Federal Government has created a new pandemic response called PROTECT. This follows WHO advice for individual countries to tailor their pandemic response to local circumstances.
The swine flu is not as severe as envisaged when Australian pandemic plans were written in 2008. Overall, it is of moderate severity, and the response has been adjusted to the risk the virus poses to the community. It is expected that the PROTECT phase will continue while the disease continues to be mild in most cases or until a vaccine is available.
The focus of the PROTECT phase is on early access to treatment of those at risk of severe illness. The public will play an important role in minimising the spread of the disease by the continuation of good hand and respiratory hygiene, staying at home if unwell and being aware and alert to the fact that this disease could have a more serious impact on vulnerable groups, according to the Department of Health and Ageing.
Where do you go if you get a flu-like illness?
If you have a severe flu-like illness, go to your local hospital emergency department. Otherwise see your GP.
When should I see my GP?
Within 48 hours of the onset of illness, in particular if you are at risk of severe illness.
How do I know if I am at risk of severe illness?
So far, the disease is mild in most cases. You may be at risk of severe illness if you are:
• Pregnant
• Have chronic underlying disease, e.g. chronic asthma, heart disease
• Immunosuppressed
• Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islander background
• Morbidly Obese
What about travel and contact with swine flu?
The decision about where to go (GP or Hospital) does not depend on travel or contact with swine flu. If your illness is severe go to the hospital. If it is not at the severe stage, go to your GP.
What about antivirals, e.g.Tamiflu?
GPs are being provided with supplies of free antivirals for patients at risk of severe illness, as defined by strict criteria. They can provide a prescription to other patients to buy at a pharmacy.
How long should I stay at home?
Until you are well, in particular have no fever. This time will vary with individuals and according to treatment.
Who do I need to inform at UNSW?
It is important to get medical advice, treatment and a certificate to cover your absence due to illness. Inform your supervisor using your normal sick leave protocols. Students inform their course co-coordinators or supervisors in the normal way.
Should I inform the University Flu Manager?
There is no routine obligation for you to inform the University Flu Manager, Dr Jacinta Crimmins.
Notification from colleges and childcare centres is still encouraged ( j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au )
Will there be a Flu Clinic at UNSW?
Yes. All staff and students are encouraged to see their regular GP and not to stay at Uni if unwell. There will be a Flu Clinic at the University Health Service for staff, students, & those in residential colleges from 10.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday (starting Monday June 22. Please phone 9385 5425 before attending, or email unihealth@unsw.edu.au.
The University will continue to monitor the advice from WHO, Department of Health and Ageing and NSW Health and inform you and update policies accordingly.
Links
DoHA "Protect Phase"
NSW Health
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
University Flu Manager
j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au
16 June 2009
It is likely that community clusters of swine flu will develop in NSW over the next few weeks and those effects will be felt by the UNSW community.
Fortunately, the fact that NSW is about two months behind the USA and up to a month behind Victoria is an advantage. Public Health services have been able to learn from the local and international experience.
Public Health organisations are well prepared with pandemic policies that are based on an assumption of severe illness. At this stage, that does not seem to be the case with swine flu but there is concern that a second wave of the virus will be more virulent.
Anyone who has flu symptoms and likely contact with swine flu should go to their local NSW public hospital flu clinic where diagnosis and treatment will be fast tracked.
Once the number of cases is beyond the capacity of the hospital flu clinics, NSW Public Health will communicate to GPs what their role will be.
The University Health Service has organised additional resources for the flu season and is ready to provide a ‘flu clinic’ to residential students if required over the next few months.
If you are confirmed with Swine Flu or influenza A, please email me (j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au) so that any precautions or information to fellow colleagues of students can be passed on. All information will be handled in a professional manner.
Staff and students at high risk of complications from influenza (those with chronic illness, pregnant, elderly or asthma) may benefit from a check up with their regular GP and discussion about specific preventative or management issues.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has updated travel advice to Australians leaving the country following the developments of clusters in Victoria. As Australian travellers are seen as a potential source of infection, there have been flu screening and quarantine protocols introduced internationally specifically for incoming flights from Australia.
UNSW has updated its advice to staff travelling to reflect the current smartraveller advice.
There is specific advice for travellers at increased risk of complications from influenza.
Over the next weeks, the situation is expected to change in regard to where to get medical attention if you are sick. Updates will be available via the NSW Health Website and then updated on this bulletin.
Links
WHO updates
Department of Health and Aging
NSW Health
Travel Updates
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
Director University Health Service
UNSW Primary Flu Manager
Fortunately, the fact that NSW is about two months behind the USA and up to a month behind Victoria is an advantage. Public Health services have been able to learn from the local and international experience.
Public Health organisations are well prepared with pandemic policies that are based on an assumption of severe illness. At this stage, that does not seem to be the case with swine flu but there is concern that a second wave of the virus will be more virulent.
Anyone who has flu symptoms and likely contact with swine flu should go to their local NSW public hospital flu clinic where diagnosis and treatment will be fast tracked.
Once the number of cases is beyond the capacity of the hospital flu clinics, NSW Public Health will communicate to GPs what their role will be.
The University Health Service has organised additional resources for the flu season and is ready to provide a ‘flu clinic’ to residential students if required over the next few months.
If you are confirmed with Swine Flu or influenza A, please email me (j.crimmins@unsw.edu.au) so that any precautions or information to fellow colleagues of students can be passed on. All information will be handled in a professional manner.
Staff and students at high risk of complications from influenza (those with chronic illness, pregnant, elderly or asthma) may benefit from a check up with their regular GP and discussion about specific preventative or management issues.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has updated travel advice to Australians leaving the country following the developments of clusters in Victoria. As Australian travellers are seen as a potential source of infection, there have been flu screening and quarantine protocols introduced internationally specifically for incoming flights from Australia.
UNSW has updated its advice to staff travelling to reflect the current smartraveller advice.
There is specific advice for travellers at increased risk of complications from influenza.
Over the next weeks, the situation is expected to change in regard to where to get medical attention if you are sick. Updates will be available via the NSW Health Website and then updated on this bulletin.
Links
WHO updates
Department of Health and Aging
NSW Health
Travel Updates
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
Director University Health Service
UNSW Primary Flu Manager
12 June 2009
The World Health Organization has lifted the level of pandemic alert for the Swine Flu virus to level 6. This is an indication of the degree of global spread, not of severity. The purpose of the classification is to help the co-ordination of public health resources globally.
Dr Margaret Chan, Director General of WHO, said that countries with widespread transmission should focus on the appropriate management of patients.
“The testing and investigation of patients should be limited, as such measures are resource intensive and can very quickly strain capacities,” she said. (See link to address below).
Victoria pre-empted the new classification last week, when it changed its policy of testing and reporting cases. This enabled stretched medical resources to be directed towards treatment. The Australian and NSW Health Departments are yet to announce changes to their policies.
There is likely to be a degree of confusion as the situation evolves. In the interim, common sense should prevail. If you are sick, do what is appropriate to decrease the spread to others. If you are well, take normal precautions to decrease the chance of getting a flu-like illness.
Although the disease itself appears to be mild, it is more severe in pregnant women and people with chronic illness. Specific advice about “self-exclusion” periods and travel advice is likely to be up-dated on government web sites over the next few days.
The UNSW Pandemic Management team will be meeting at 8am next Tuesday (16 June) to review any National and NSW Public Health Policy changes and adjust advice accordingly.
Links (updates occur about each 12 hours)
WHO Dr Margaret Chan’s address June 11
Department of Health and Aging
NSW Health
Travel Updates
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
Director University Health Service
UNSW Primary Flu Manager
Dr Margaret Chan, Director General of WHO, said that countries with widespread transmission should focus on the appropriate management of patients.
“The testing and investigation of patients should be limited, as such measures are resource intensive and can very quickly strain capacities,” she said. (See link to address below).
Victoria pre-empted the new classification last week, when it changed its policy of testing and reporting cases. This enabled stretched medical resources to be directed towards treatment. The Australian and NSW Health Departments are yet to announce changes to their policies.
There is likely to be a degree of confusion as the situation evolves. In the interim, common sense should prevail. If you are sick, do what is appropriate to decrease the spread to others. If you are well, take normal precautions to decrease the chance of getting a flu-like illness.
Although the disease itself appears to be mild, it is more severe in pregnant women and people with chronic illness. Specific advice about “self-exclusion” periods and travel advice is likely to be up-dated on government web sites over the next few days.
The UNSW Pandemic Management team will be meeting at 8am next Tuesday (16 June) to review any National and NSW Public Health Policy changes and adjust advice accordingly.
Links (updates occur about each 12 hours)
WHO Dr Margaret Chan’s address June 11
Department of Health and Aging
NSW Health
Travel Updates
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
Director University Health Service
UNSW Primary Flu Manager
28 May 2009
Given the spread of the virus in the community over the past few days, as a precautionary measure the University is asking staff and students who are experiencing flu like symptoms to remain at home. By following the public health advice below, you can help to contain any further spread of the infection.
- If you have a fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or cough, please stay at home.
- Contact your local GP by phone and get advice. If you do not have a local GP call the Swine Flu hotline: 1802007
- If you live on the Kensington campus, phone the University Health Service on 9385 5425.
- Inform your supervisor/tutor/course coordinator of your progress.
- Follow any direct/personal public health or doctor’s advice
- If you are uncertain about your situation, take the cautious approach and wait at home until you have more information.
We recognise that staying away from campus may cause stress and disruption to your work and/or studies. However, the disruption would be greater if we had an outbreak on campus. I encourage you to think ahead about how you might manage at home in regard to shopping and your work/studies if you were well but quarantined and unable to come to campus.
How the virus spreads
The swine flu virus is spread by sneeze or cough droplets and the breath of someone infected.
Droplets can land directly on a person, and on surfaces such as hands, pens or money. They can survive on these surfaces and then be transferred by hands to someone else. The illness appears to be quite mild if treated at an early stage, but some people in the community may be severely affected.
You can minimise the spread of influenza in the community by:
How the virus spreads
The swine flu virus is spread by sneeze or cough droplets and the breath of someone infected.
Droplets can land directly on a person, and on surfaces such as hands, pens or money. They can survive on these surfaces and then be transferred by hands to someone else. The illness appears to be quite mild if treated at an early stage, but some people in the community may be severely affected.
You can minimise the spread of influenza in the community by:
- Hand washing for 10 seconds with soap and water or with an alcohol-based cleaner until dry.
- Covering your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and disposing of the tissue in the bin.
- Not touching your face, eyes or nose unless you have just cleaned your hands.
- Keeping your distance from sick people.
- Getting the seasonal flu vaccine. This vaccine does not prevent swine flu, but preventing the seasonal flu will decrease illness, anxiety and disruption.
By following this public health advice, it is expected that the number of people potentially affected in a community could be reduced from 40 to 10 percent.
Other information
Travel
Staff and students who are travelling are advised to use the DFAT web site, register with Smart Traveller and consult www.smartraveller.gov.au for current advice.
Influenza vaccine at UNSW Health Service
The Influenza vaccine is available at most GPs for about $10 to $15, including the University Health Service. There is a greater risk of spread of influenza in institutions like colleges, so the Health Service is providing additional resources to colleges (including signage and vaccine clinics).
Masks
Masks are not generally recommended for well people at this stage. Exceptions are health care workers, and household/very close contacts of someone infected. If you have specific concerns about your exposure during your course (e.g. health student), contact your clinical supervisor or the OHS department associated with your placement.
Masks are recommended for affected individuals. Your doctor or Public Health Authority will give current advice if needed. The University Pandemic Flu team is liaising with the Faculty of Medicine to clarify any special arrangements via the medical school.
Hand washing
I recommend that you carry a small packet of alcohol wipes to use if hand-washing facilities are not available at UNSW or elsewhere. UNSW has increased the maintenance of restrooms over the last month, and will be providing access to alcohol-based gels in computer labs over the next week.
Seeing a general practitioner
If you are ill please contact your regular or local GP. Phone ahead for specific advice about where to go. The Swine Flu Hotline 1802007 can also direct you to appropriate medical services. These may be your local hospital or Public Health Unit. If you live on or near campus, you can phone the University Health Service on 9385 5425.
University Health Service
The University Health Service is providing a community health prevention service to staff, students, childcare services and colleges, and a GP service primarily to its current patients, students and residents of the UNSW campus. Students who already have a local GP are encouraged to use them.
Updates will be posted on the UNSW homepage via the red first aid button under quick links.
Other Contacts
Australian Department of Health updates
http://www.healthemergency.gov.au/
NSW Health
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp
Swine Flu Hotline
1802007
WHO
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS UNSW BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
Other information
Travel
Staff and students who are travelling are advised to use the DFAT web site, register with Smart Traveller and consult www.smartraveller.gov.au for current advice.
Influenza vaccine at UNSW Health Service
The Influenza vaccine is available at most GPs for about $10 to $15, including the University Health Service. There is a greater risk of spread of influenza in institutions like colleges, so the Health Service is providing additional resources to colleges (including signage and vaccine clinics).
Masks
Masks are not generally recommended for well people at this stage. Exceptions are health care workers, and household/very close contacts of someone infected. If you have specific concerns about your exposure during your course (e.g. health student), contact your clinical supervisor or the OHS department associated with your placement.
Masks are recommended for affected individuals. Your doctor or Public Health Authority will give current advice if needed. The University Pandemic Flu team is liaising with the Faculty of Medicine to clarify any special arrangements via the medical school.
Hand washing
I recommend that you carry a small packet of alcohol wipes to use if hand-washing facilities are not available at UNSW or elsewhere. UNSW has increased the maintenance of restrooms over the last month, and will be providing access to alcohol-based gels in computer labs over the next week.
Seeing a general practitioner
If you are ill please contact your regular or local GP. Phone ahead for specific advice about where to go. The Swine Flu Hotline 1802007 can also direct you to appropriate medical services. These may be your local hospital or Public Health Unit. If you live on or near campus, you can phone the University Health Service on 9385 5425.
University Health Service
The University Health Service is providing a community health prevention service to staff, students, childcare services and colleges, and a GP service primarily to its current patients, students and residents of the UNSW campus. Students who already have a local GP are encouraged to use them.
Updates will be posted on the UNSW homepage via the red first aid button under quick links.
Other Contacts
Australian Department of Health updates
http://www.healthemergency.gov.au/
NSW Health
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp
Swine Flu Hotline
1802007
WHO
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/
Dr Jacinta Crimmins
MBBS UNSW BMedSci MScTech Occ Med FRACGP
25 May 2009 - More Influenza Vaccination Clinics planned for Staff and Residential College Students
There was a wonderful response from UNSW staff to the Influenza Vaccine Clinic. There will be an ongoing Influenza Vaccination Clinic each Wednesday from 11am to 1pm at the University Health Service, Ground Floor, Quadrangle building, until the end of Semester 1. This clinic is for staff and also is being offered as a health promotion service to Residential College students.
There are no appointments for this clinic, just turn up to the University Health Service with your UNSW ID card on Wednesday from 11am to 1pm.
There are no appointments for this clinic, just turn up to the University Health Service with your UNSW ID card on Wednesday from 11am to 1pm.
11 May 2009 - Free staff flu shots extended
Due to the high level of demand for the special influenza vaccination service for UNSW staff, the service will be extended. The vaccine aims to prevent seasonal flu, not the "Swine/Mexican/H1N1" virus and will be given by certified immunisation nurses or medical staff.
This week the clinic opening hours will be:
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (May 11, 12 and 13)
8am to 10am sharp and from 12pm to 2pm sharp
Operated by the University Health Service, the clinic will run from FM Assist, and requires no booking. Simply turn up to Level 2 of the Matthews Building with your staff card.
Vaccine supplies are limited and staff with conditions that make them at greater risk of severe influenza are encouraged to come sooner.
This includes individuals with:
This week the clinic opening hours will be:
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (May 11, 12 and 13)
8am to 10am sharp and from 12pm to 2pm sharp
Operated by the University Health Service, the clinic will run from FM Assist, and requires no booking. Simply turn up to Level 2 of the Matthews Building with your staff card.
Vaccine supplies are limited and staff with conditions that make them at greater risk of severe influenza are encouraged to come sooner.
This includes individuals with:
- Cardiac disease
- Chronic lung disease
- Severe asthma
- Diabetes
- Chronic Renal Disease
- Chronic Neurological conditions that would affect coughing
- Impaired immunity (including HIV)
UNSW made the decision to offer the vaccinations because the potential cimpacts of seasonal influenza are likely to be greater this year in terms of anxiety and disruption to life.
The normal flu is much worse than a cold and is highly contagious. Starting suddenly, it is associated with body aches and a high temperature. Most people are confined to bed due to weakness. It can sometimes develop into severe pneumonia.
The flu spreads easily in the workplace from contact closer than one metre with an unwell person. It is also transferred by droplets from coughing and sneezing and from touching contaminated surfaces.
UNSW has increased signage on campus to encourage hand washing and cough etiquette. We also encourage anyone with a fever and a respiratory illness to stay away from work.
A mixture of care, caution, common sense and tolerance is needed in the workplace. Please note that you do not get the flu from hay fever sneezes, asthma or smoker's coughs.
Jonathan Blakeman
Executive Director
Operations and Finance
The normal flu is much worse than a cold and is highly contagious. Starting suddenly, it is associated with body aches and a high temperature. Most people are confined to bed due to weakness. It can sometimes develop into severe pneumonia.
The flu spreads easily in the workplace from contact closer than one metre with an unwell person. It is also transferred by droplets from coughing and sneezing and from touching contaminated surfaces.
UNSW has increased signage on campus to encourage hand washing and cough etiquette. We also encourage anyone with a fever and a respiratory illness to stay away from work.
A mixture of care, caution, common sense and tolerance is needed in the workplace. Please note that you do not get the flu from hay fever sneezes, asthma or smoker's coughs.
Jonathan Blakeman
Executive Director
Operations and Finance
5 May 2009 - Free flu shots for staff at FM Assist
A special influenza vaccination service will operate this Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (May 4, 5 and 6) at FM Assist. The vaccine aims to prevent seasonal flu, not the “Swine/Mexican/H1N1” virus.
Operated by the University Health Service, the clinic will run from 11am to 1.30pm and requires no booking. Simply turn up to Level 2 of the Matthews Building with your staff card.
UNSW made the decision to offer the vaccinations because the potential impacts of seasonal influenza are likely to be greater this year in terms of anxiety and disruption to life.
The normal flu is much worse than a cold and is highly contagious. Starting suddenly, it is associated with body aches and a high temperature. Most people are confined to bed due to weakness. It can sometimes develop into severe pneumonia.
The flu spreads easily in the workplace from contact closer than one metre with an unwell person. It is also transferred by droplets from coughing and sneezing and from touching contaminated surfaces.
UNSW has increased signage on campus to encourage hand washing and cough etiquette. We also encourage anyone with a fever and a respiratory illness to stay away from work.
A mixture of care, caution, common sense and tolerance is needed in the workplace. Please note that you do not get the flu from hay fever sneezes, asthma or smoker’s coughs.
The vaccines will be given by certified immunisation nurses or medical staff. More clinics will be arranged if needed, subject to the availability of flu vaccine supplies.
For more information about the seasonal flu and vaccination see the FightFlu website.
Jonathan Blakeman
Executive Director
Operations and Finance
Operated by the University Health Service, the clinic will run from 11am to 1.30pm and requires no booking. Simply turn up to Level 2 of the Matthews Building with your staff card.
UNSW made the decision to offer the vaccinations because the potential impacts of seasonal influenza are likely to be greater this year in terms of anxiety and disruption to life.
The normal flu is much worse than a cold and is highly contagious. Starting suddenly, it is associated with body aches and a high temperature. Most people are confined to bed due to weakness. It can sometimes develop into severe pneumonia.
The flu spreads easily in the workplace from contact closer than one metre with an unwell person. It is also transferred by droplets from coughing and sneezing and from touching contaminated surfaces.
UNSW has increased signage on campus to encourage hand washing and cough etiquette. We also encourage anyone with a fever and a respiratory illness to stay away from work.
A mixture of care, caution, common sense and tolerance is needed in the workplace. Please note that you do not get the flu from hay fever sneezes, asthma or smoker’s coughs.
The vaccines will be given by certified immunisation nurses or medical staff. More clinics will be arranged if needed, subject to the availability of flu vaccine supplies.
For more information about the seasonal flu and vaccination see the FightFlu website.
Jonathan Blakeman
Executive Director
Operations and Finance
30 April 2009 - Staff flu vaccinations and update on swine flu
As the swine flu situation develops, staff are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the latest influenza advice.
With the onset of the flu season it is inevitable that some staff and students will develop flu-like symptoms and may be concerned because of the "swine flu" threat.
First thing don't panic, it may be regular flu. Or even just a cold. But there are important steps you should take if you have reason to think there is cause for concern (see below).
The University has a Pandemic Response plan which will be activated if and when a pandemic occurs. At this stage, with no declared pandemic, the response of the University is to reinforce the message of the NSW Department of Health.
Staff should be aware that public health advice changes regularly and it is important to review the NSW Health website for updated information.
The Australian Government Health Emergency website also provides regularly updated information.
University staff are strongly advised to avoid travel to flu-affected regions. For updated travel advice visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Staff will be kept updated on the University’s response if the swine flu threat escalates.
If you think you have swine flu
NSW Health has updated its advice to the general public and GPs on what to do when someone fits the suspected case definition of “Swine flu”.
If you have flu like symptoms and have a relevant travel history or have contact with someone with confirmed swine flu, then you need to attend your local Public Hospital Emergency Department.
NSW Health is providing resources to Emergency Departments for priority testing for swine flu (when indicated) and if necessary, free antiviral medication. These treatments will generally be recommended if the affected patient is seen within 48 hours of onset of illness or is severely ill.
If you have flu symptoms but do not meet the swine flu definition
If you have flu symptoms, but do not have the travel history or contact with someone with confirmed swine flu then you are advised to see your local GP.
Flu or a cold?
Many people may panic when they get a cold and think they have swine flu. There are some typical differences between a cold and the flu that will help people make the decision about when and how to get the right medical attention. The flu is usually a more severe illness with sudden onset of fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat and body aches. There is more information about the difference between Influenza and a cold on the Australian Government’s 'fight flu’ website.
How to protect yourself
The spread of the flu will be reduced by:
1. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough and disposing of the tissue responsibly
2. Washing your hands with soap and water
3. Not sharing personal items ( e.g. straws, drinks, toothbrushes)
4. Cleaning surfaces around your home and workplace
5. Staying at home if unwell
Staff flu vaccinations
Work unit managers are able to organize influenza vaccinations for their staff through the University Health Service.
The vaccination is for seasonal flu. It is not aimed at protecting against swine flu, although protecting yourself against any flu will decrease anxiety and disruption to life, says Health Service Director Dr Jacinta Crimmins.
The service is offered for a small fee. The shots are given in the workplace and administered by an experienced immunisation nurse.
Workplace managers should phone x 56481 or email practice manager Cheryl Walker, cheryl.walker@unsw.edu.au, to organise a workplace visit.
With the onset of the flu season it is inevitable that some staff and students will develop flu-like symptoms and may be concerned because of the "swine flu" threat.
First thing don't panic, it may be regular flu. Or even just a cold. But there are important steps you should take if you have reason to think there is cause for concern (see below).
The University has a Pandemic Response plan which will be activated if and when a pandemic occurs. At this stage, with no declared pandemic, the response of the University is to reinforce the message of the NSW Department of Health.
Staff should be aware that public health advice changes regularly and it is important to review the NSW Health website for updated information.
The Australian Government Health Emergency website also provides regularly updated information.
University staff are strongly advised to avoid travel to flu-affected regions. For updated travel advice visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Staff will be kept updated on the University’s response if the swine flu threat escalates.
If you think you have swine flu
NSW Health has updated its advice to the general public and GPs on what to do when someone fits the suspected case definition of “Swine flu”.
If you have flu like symptoms and have a relevant travel history or have contact with someone with confirmed swine flu, then you need to attend your local Public Hospital Emergency Department.
NSW Health is providing resources to Emergency Departments for priority testing for swine flu (when indicated) and if necessary, free antiviral medication. These treatments will generally be recommended if the affected patient is seen within 48 hours of onset of illness or is severely ill.
If you have flu symptoms but do not meet the swine flu definition
If you have flu symptoms, but do not have the travel history or contact with someone with confirmed swine flu then you are advised to see your local GP.
Flu or a cold?
Many people may panic when they get a cold and think they have swine flu. There are some typical differences between a cold and the flu that will help people make the decision about when and how to get the right medical attention. The flu is usually a more severe illness with sudden onset of fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat and body aches. There is more information about the difference between Influenza and a cold on the Australian Government’s 'fight flu’ website.
How to protect yourself
The spread of the flu will be reduced by:
1. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough and disposing of the tissue responsibly
2. Washing your hands with soap and water
3. Not sharing personal items ( e.g. straws, drinks, toothbrushes)
4. Cleaning surfaces around your home and workplace
5. Staying at home if unwell
Staff flu vaccinations
Work unit managers are able to organize influenza vaccinations for their staff through the University Health Service.
The vaccination is for seasonal flu. It is not aimed at protecting against swine flu, although protecting yourself against any flu will decrease anxiety and disruption to life, says Health Service Director Dr Jacinta Crimmins.
The service is offered for a small fee. The shots are given in the workplace and administered by an experienced immunisation nurse.
Workplace managers should phone x 56481 or email practice manager Cheryl Walker, cheryl.walker@unsw.edu.au, to organise a workplace visit.