Prevention and education

About H1N1

H1N1 flu virus is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of seasonal influenza. H1N1 has been reported around the world, and the World Health Organization has declared it a pandemic influenza virus.

The Public Health Agency of Canada, Alberta Health and Wellness, and Alberta Health Services (AHS) continue to monitor and respond to the spread of H1N1. In most instances, H1N1 flu cases in Alberta continue to be associated with relatively mild symptoms typical of seasonal influenza or influenza-like-illness.

H1N1 is mainly spread person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by people infected with the H1N1 flu virus. People may also become infected by touching something with the H1N1 or any flu virus on it, such as counters or doorknobs, and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

Prevention

The single most effective way to prevent contracting influenza is by washing your hands regularly with warm water and regular soap, especially after you cough or sneeze.

hand washingOther tips include:

  • When you can’t wash your hands, use a hand sanitizer.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue in the trash right after you use it, and wash or sanitize your hands right away.
  • If you don’t have a tissue, cough and sneeze into your upper arm or sleeve.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs can spread that way.
  • If you get sick, stay home and limit contact with others.

Flu shots

Mount Royal encourages all members of the campus community to get vaccinated for the H1N1 flu virus.

Alberta Health Services is providing the H1N1 vaccine at clinics across the province. Search for the clinic closest to you and when it is open at their website.

You can also call Health Link Alberta at 403-943-LINK (5465) for additional information.

How to stay well

An important aspect to staying well and contributing to preventing getting sick is having a healthy immune system. When immune systems are low or compromised the chances of becoming sick are greater.

Here are some tips for staying well, especially during the flu season:

  • Get adequate rest and sleep seven to eight hours a night
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Exercise regularly
  • Reduce stress and practice stress management techniques
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Listen to your body

Symptoms

The following information outlines symptoms as outlined by the Alberta Health Services. The symptoms of pandemic H1N1 in Canada have been generally mild, but illness can be severe for some individuals.

The symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza and may include:

  • Sudden onset of fever and cough
  • Lethargy
  • Muscle aches
  • Lack of appetite

Some people with H1N1have also reported:man who is sick

  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If you develop flu like symptoms

  • Stay home — do not come to work or class and avoid public places until you have recovered. Call Health Link Alberta for advice before visiting a physician’s office, medicentre or accessing an emergency room.
    • Health Link Alberta: Toll-free 1.866.408.LINK (5465)
    • Health Link Alberta: In Calgary, call 403.943.LINK (5465)
  • Practice self care — which means eat well, exercise regularly and get enough rest especially during high stress periods and maintain healthy hygiene practices — including avoiding others, coughing into your sleeve, increased hand washing and rest.
  • Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if your symptoms are not improving by calling Health Link Alberta.

If you have been recently in contact with someone with the flu

  • Continue with your regular activity, unless you are displaying influenza-like symptoms or if you have been otherwise advised by your healthcare provider.
  • Monitor yourself and your family for symptoms of influenza illness
  • Practice self care at home and at work/school
  • If you develop flu-like symptoms — stay home until the symptoms have been resolved

Individuals can call Health Link Alberta at 403-943-LINK (5465) or visit www.healthlinkalberta.ca, 24 hours a day, seven days a week if they have questions or concerns.

All members of the Mount Royal community are asked to

  • Follow recommendations provided by AHS and Mount Royal to help stop the spread of infection.
  • Monitor this website for the latest official information on H1N1 at Mount Royal
  • Have a personal preparedness plan should you or a family member become ill
  • Adhere to the practices outlined within this document

For more information specific to your needs, please see the appropriate links on the left.

Did you know?

  • When you are sick with the flu you are contagious one day before and up to five days after your symptoms appear. Symptoms include fever, aches, chills and dry cough, fatigue and headache
  • In Canada, seasonal influenza results an average of 20,000 hospitalizations and 4,000 deaths each year.
  • The seasonal flu may be fine for you, but could prove to be life threatening for vulnerable populations; the elderly, infants & children, pregnant women and persons with immune-comprised health.
  • Getting a flu shot protects you and will not give you the flu
  • More germs are transferred shaking hands than kissing — so wash hands frequently with soap & water
  • The average desk harbours 400 times more germs than the average toilet seat — so keep your personal work environment clean by using cleansing wipes or other household products (avoid using antibacterial products).

 

Wellness Services
proper sneeze