De La Salle University - Manila

Bulletin : Influenza A (H1N1) Virus

DATE : 03 June 2009
TO : The Academic Community

FROM : Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC, President and Chancellor
RE : Confirmed case of Influenza A (H1N1) and campus closure
___________________________________________________________

De La Salle University announces the closure of the campus from June 4 to 14, 2009 in view of its first confirmed case of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus. Based on existing Department of Health Guideline on Influenza A (H1N1) in schools, DLSU will reopen on June 15.

The case is a female foreign student who arrived in the country on May 12. DOH confirmed today, June 3, that the student contracted the virus.

The student has been admitted in a healthcare facility and is being closely monitored by medical practitioners.

DLSU officials have met with DOH Secretary Dr. Francisco T. Duque III and are closely coordinating with other Department of Health key personnel regarding the case.

Prior to the incident, the University has instituted campus-wide precautionary measures such as information dissemination regarding the Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

During the closure period, the Academic Community is advised to monitor flu-like symptoms, to stay away from crowds, and to practice good hygiene. If symptoms appear, the person should immediately seek medical attention. They should also inform the University Clinic of their condition by sending their full name and ID number through email at clinic@dlsu.edu.ph.

The community is also advised to regularly check the DLSU website at www.dlsu.edu.ph/Influenza_bulletin for updates and developments on the issue, and announcements on the rescheduling of University events and activities, etc. For inquiries, the Marketing Communication Office may be reached at 526-5913 during office hours.

Reminders:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
   
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
   
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
   
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
   
• Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people, except to seek medical care.

If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.