Seasonal influenza and H1N1
Mount Royal is taking several measures to prepare the campus for the upcoming flu season and the potential spread of the H1N1 virus.
An awareness campaign will be launched to provide flu prevention information to students, faculty and staff, emphasizing self-care techniques and what to do if you develop flu-like symptoms.
Microsan stations, an alcohol-based foam hand sanitizer, will also be placed at most entrances and other key high traffic areas.
Mount Royal is working with Alberta Health Services (AHS) to ensure that we have the most up-to-date information and to ensure our preparations and plans are consistent with theirs. In an outbreak or pandemic situation, AHS has the authority to direct public health actions, including post-secondary institution closure and/or quarantine.
This page has been created by Mount Royal’s Public Health Response team as a resource for those of you who wish to find more detailed information about what you should do if you begin to experience influenza-like illness (ILI).
ILI is defined as the acute onset of respiratory symptoms with fever and cough and one or more of the following symptoms: fever, sore throat, muscle aches, joint pain or weakness. Gastrointestinal symptoms may also be present.
If you still have questions that you cannot find answers to through this resource, please contact the lead of Mount Royal’s Public Health Response Team, Jane O’Connor at 503.440.6927 or 403.589.7401 (cell) and she will be happy to provide you with more information.
What to do …
If you develop flu-like symptoms:
Stay home — do not come to work or class and avoid public places until you have recovered.
Practice self care including avoiding others, coughing into your sleeve, increased hand washing and rest.
Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you develop a fever and cough or your symptoms are not improving by calling Health Link Alberta for advice before visiting a physician’s office, medicentre or emergency room.
- Health Link Alberta: Toll-free 1.866.408.LINK (5465)
- Health Link Alberta: In Calgary, call 403.943.LINK (5465)
If you are experiencing flu symptoms or feel ill enough that you are uncomfortable coming to campus:
Please contact your direct supervisor to discuss appropriate options with regard to your individual roles and responsibilities at Mount Royal.
If you have recently been in contact with someone with the flu:
- You can come to work/class
- 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 within 10 days of personal contact — stay home until the symptoms have been resolved
If you are travelling outside of Canada and develop a fever and a cough while travelling:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Inform a health care provider of your symptoms
- Avoid direct contact with others if possible, unless directed to seek medical care
- Notify one of the airline crew immediately, if you are on a plane, and
- Notify a Canadian Border Service officer when you go through Customs
While not currently recommended in Canada, individuals who are travelling should be warned of the possibility that quarantine or other public health measures may be applied at international borders.
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently, using soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Use hand sanitizer if hands are not visibly dirty or if soap and water are not accessible.
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve rather than your hand.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after touching door handles and other surfaces that may harbour influenza and other viruses.
- If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, please stay at home and avoid public places until you have recovered.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Headaches
- Persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
For more information on how to recognize the symptoms of influenza, what to do if you think you have the influenza, and tips on how to prevent the spread of the flu, please visit the following links for up-to-date information from a variety of recognized health authorities:
We will continue to monitor the issue carefully. Please check this page often for updates.
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