Swine Flu

H1N1 Protocol for Staff

Prevention and Minimization

Individuals can take a number of measures on a routine basis that will minimize the spread of disease. These measures include:

Hand hygiene: Wash hands after direct contact with people, after contact with objects such as doorknobs or other surfaces touched by others, and after using the restroom. Wet hands, apply soap, and rub hands vigorously for 15 seconds prior to rinsing. Waterless hand sanitizers are recommended as an alternative to hand washing according to CDC's Guideline for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings (Oct 2002).
Respiratory etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into you your upper sleeve, not on your hand. Dispose of used tissues appropriately immediately following use, and wash or sanitize your hands.
Respiratory protection: Surgical masks can provide some benefit against the spread of disease and should be worn by those who are coughing or sneezing while in public to prevent contamination of others. Masks should be replaced frequently (after 20 minutes) and disposed of with minimal handling. Surgical masks do not require medical clearance or fit testing.

Response

If you develop the symptoms of the H1N1 flu:

Avoid contact with others.

• If you are not at work, call in sick to your supervisor, as per the University Attendance and Sick Leave policies. If you develop symptoms while at work, notify your supervisor and ask to be released from your duties.

• If you exhaust your leave, contact Human Resources to discuss alternative leave options.

• STAFF WITH DIRECT PATIENT CONTACT: Remain at home for a minimum of seven (7) days or 24 hours after fever subsides. ALL OTHER STAFF: Return to work 24 hours after fever subsides.

If You are a Supervisors

Educate all employees about this H1N1 protocol.
If you observe an employee (i.e., a direct report) with flu-like symptoms, separate them from other workers and ask them to go home promptly.