Health Updates

Georgian’s Health and Safety Committee, under the direction of Connie Heasman and Cathy Brown, has formed a response team to examine what additional measures may be necessary should the Influenza A (H1N1) situation worsen. The team will make regular recommendations to members of the senior management team as long as the health warning continues and we will continue to keep students, staff and faculty members updated on the situation.

Questions may be directed to your HR consultant. Below are some frequently asked questions and information about Influenza A.

What is H1N1 flu virus?

The Influenza A (H1N1) virus is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of the regular human seasonal flu. The symptoms may include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and sore throat. Some people with this virus have also reported vomiting and diarrhea.

How does is spread between people?

The virus is believed to be spread in the same manner as seasonal influenza: person-to-person mainly by “droplet spread.” This happens when droplets from a cough or sneeze are released into the air and then are breathed in by others who are less than six feet away. The virus can also be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets on another person or an object and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. The virus can live outside the body on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours. However it should be noted that the virus is easily killed by hand washing with warm water and soap, or with hand sanitizer. Household disinfectants will kill the virus on household items and surfaces.

How to prevent the spread of Influenza viruses

In the interests of maintaining workflow and keeping the College open for our students, Health and Safety asks that you follow the preventative health measures listed below:

• Wash your hands with soap and warm running water for a minimum of 15 seconds or use hand sanitizer gel
• Practise proper coughing etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose with your arm or use a Kleenex to cover your mouth. If you must use your hands to cover your mouth, wash them immediately
• Keep common items and surfaces clean
• Be sure to get a flu shot every year
• Stay home if you are ill to avoid infecting students and your co-workers

Online Resources

If you want to learn more about protecting yourself and your family, the following reliable organizations provide up-to-date and accurate information regarding Influenza and related health advisories:

• World Health Organization (WHO): http://www.who.int/en/
• Public Health Agency of Canada: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/
• Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit: http://www.simcoehealth.org
• Grey County Public Health Unit: http://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
• Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health Unit: http://www.wdghu.org