Updated 11 February 2010
Influenza A(H1N1) Information
UCD has a comprehensive 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 university. The management of this plan is overseen by the UCD Flu Response Team which consists of representatives from across the university.
This site will keep you up-to-date with the precautions and actions the university is taking to mitigate the impact of Influenza. Please check regularly for updates.
- Swine Flu vaccination available for all until 31 March 2010 (UPDATED 11 February 2010)
- Information video on Influenza A(H1N1)
- Current HSE Medical Advice
- Latest Information on Influenza A(H1N1)
- Frequently Asked Questions - Students
- Frequently Asked Questions - Staff
- UCD Swine Flu Student INFOLINE
Information video on Influenza A(H1N1)
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
Worldwide
Frequently Asked Questions - Students
Q: I have influenza/flu symptoms, what should I do?
A: If you develop influenza symptoms do not come to university, stay at home and call your GP. He/she will issue further advice, including when you should return to university. Inform your Programme Office regarding your condition and complete a Influenza A(H1N1)/Swine Flu Self-Certification form upon your return. The UCD Influenza A(H1N1)/Swine Flu Self-Certification form may only be used to notify the university about your absence due to Influenza A(H1N1) for the period up to and including Friday 27 November 2009 (for the examination period see below).
Q: I have influenza/flu symptoms during the examination period, what should I do?
A: If you feel unwell you must not attend examinations, stay at home and call your GP. He/she will issue further advice, including when you should return to university. For absences due to any illness, including Influenza A(H1N1), during UCD’s formal examination period, (7 to 18 December 2009) you will be required to submit medical certification. If you miss all or some of your exams due to illness (including Influenza A(H1N1)) you must submit a medical certificate and extenuating circumstances form to your Programme Office or Graduate Studies Office, to be considered for extenuating circumstances.
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) call your GP for advice.
Q: Another student has Influenza, should I come to college?
A: If another student has been diagnosed with influenza or is suspected to have the it, do not panic. There is no need to avoid university. Come to university 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.
Frequently Asked Questions - Staff
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 Unit 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) 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 the 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.
UCD Swine Flu Student INFOLINE
(01) 716 3190 Mon - Fri, 9am - 2pm
This line is operational from 9am to 2pm, Monday to Friday and will provide general UCD information and advice to students on Swine Flu. For medical advice please contact the HSE helpline 1800 941100 or your own GP.
