Posted: Wednesday 2 December 2009
At Kilmarnock College our primary concern is the well-being of all students and staff.
Health Protection Scotland reports the total number of people contracting the H1N1 virus in Scotland has increased by 23%, to 21,500 cases, during the week up to 11 November 2009.
The total number of deaths among confirmed Influenza A H1N1v cases in Scotland, at 11 November, was 33. With two further Swine Flu related deaths in Scotland during the past week, and a number of new cases of the virus identified in the NHS Ayrshire & Arran region, it is important for us all to familiarise ourselves with Government advice on preventing the spread of Swine Flu.
The Government’s Swine Flu vaccination programme has started. The first vaccinations are being offered to those in front-line services and those at greater risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus including those over the age of 65 and individuals with long-term illnesses like asthma, diabetes and heart conditions. A comprehensive list of those who qualify for immunisation can be obtained from NHS24.
To help prevent the spread of Swine Flu Kilmarnock College would ask all students and staff to wash their hands regularly using the antibacterial soaps and gels available in all campus toilets. The use of disposable paper tissues to cover your face when blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing is advised. Tissues should be used only once and then disposed of into a bin.
To minimise the risks of infection any student or staff member displaying symptoms of the virus will be asked to go home and to contact their GP surgery for information and advice from a qualified practitioner. It is essential you follow the advice given to ensure you do not put yourself or others at risk in relation to actual or possible infection. If it is considered that you do have the virus, you will be given advice about the length of time you remain infectious and also about how long you might need to stay away from the College.
To report your absence students should contact the main reception on 01563 523501 and leave a message for their Learner Advisor, Curriculum Manager or Lecturer. All staff absences should be reported directly, by telephone, to the appropriate Line Manager.
If you are concerned about flu-like symptoms contact your GP for advice or call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24*.
Swine Flu Vaccination Programme
The Government’s Swine Flu vaccination programme has started. The first vaccinations are being offered to those in front-line services and those at greater risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus including those over the age of 65 and individuals with long-term illnesses like asthma, diabetes and heart conditions. A comprehensive list of those who qualify for immunisation can be obtained from NHS24.
Further information on the vaccine programme is available from the Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16.
Swine Flu – Quick Guide
Question & Answers
How likely am I to get it?
Everyone is at risk. Some people may contract Swine Flu without even realising. In the majority of cases the effects are mild and may last about a week. The most at-risk groups are babies up to one year old, children up to the age of 14, pregnant women and those with existing diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and diabetes.
Can it be prevented?
No. Swine Flu is contagious but attention to personal hygiene can limit the spread of the virus. Always sneeze into a tissue and then dispose of it carefully and wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an anti-bacterial gel.
What are the symptoms?
Typically a fever or a high temperature (over 38°C / 100.4°F) and two or more of the following symptoms are present when suffering from Swine Flu:
I think I've got it. What should I do now?
If you think you have contracted Swine Flu you should stay at home and check your symptoms on the NHS24 website or by calling the Swine flu information service on 0800 1 51 3513 to hear the latest advice.
If you are still concerned, or feel your symptoms are getting worse, call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24* or your local GP. They will listen to your concerns and advise you what to do next.
Can it be treated?
Most viral illness, including Swine Flu, can be safely managed at home by taking suitable medication and plenty of fluids. Swine Flu can be treated with antiviral drugs, available from your GP, such as Tamiflu or Relenza within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Antiviral drugs are not a cure but will aid recovery.
Is there a vaccine?
Yes. At-risk groups along with frontline health care workers with direct patient contact and social care staff will be among the first to be vaccinated. Further information on the vaccine programme is available via the Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16.
What about seasonal flu?
It's still out there and it, too, is contagious. Again, good hygiene can limit its spread.
I want to know more…
For further or more detailed information on the virus you can visit the Scottish Government or NHS24 websites. A dedicated Swine Flu information line is also available by calling 0800 1 513 513.
Further information about the College's Swine Flu prevention policies and procedures can be obtained by contacting Jame McKie, Director of Organisational Development, on 01563 523501.
*Calls to NHS24 charged at local rate from a BT Landline. Calls from mobiles and other service providers’ may vary.