Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 (Swine Flu) Information

DkIT is currently developing plans to respond to the potential threat from Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 to the health of students and staff, and the operation of the Institute. The management of this plan is overseen by a DkIT response team consisting of a team of representatives from relevant areas across the Institute. This team is monitoring on a regular basis current relevant expert information being provided, consulting with the regional Public Health team and advising on any actions which DkIT might take to minimise the impact of this flu.

This site will keep you up-to-date with the most relevant information and contains below guidelines for staff, students and parents which the DkIT team have developed. Please familiarise yourself with these guidelines and check regularly for updates.

Key points are as follows:

• If you suspect you have this flu do not come to DkIT for any reason.

• Stay at home for 7 days after you first develop symptoms.

• Don’t panic, for the vast majority of people this is a mild illness.

• Call the HSE Flu Information Line Freephone number 1800 94 11 00.

• Ring your GP for further advice in particular if you are in a high risk group. Do not call to the surgery without ringing your GP first.

• If you develop symptoms while in DkIT, do not attend the Student Health Unit without phoning the DKIT Flu information line first: Extension 1015 or 042-939 1015. You will be required to leave class and the DKIT Flu information line will provide you with appropriate advice.

• Inform your School/Department Office as soon as possible regarding your condition.

• If you are a student living away from home, arrangements should be made for you to return home. If this is not possible identify a group of ‘flu buddies’ for yourself and your friends. If one of you should fall ill these ‘flu buddies’ should be able to take care of you. Information on caring for a sick person can be obtained by calling the 24 hour HSE Flu information Line Freephone 1800 94 11 00

• Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissues when sneezing, coughing, wiping and blowing your nose

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, and especially after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective and shall be placed around the Institute over the coming weeks.

See bottom of this page for guidelines and information leaflets (different languages) on Swine Flu.

Further information can be obtained on the Health Protection Surveillance Centre website.