The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is preparing for the possible widespread outbreak of the H1N1 flu. An important element in the University’s preparation is the development of an H1N1 Pandemic Flu Plan. This plan outlines steps UMB will take to reduce risk to the health and safety of its faculty, staff, students, clients, and patients, and to meet its education, research, and health care missions during an H1N1 pandemic. The plan is subject to change in accordance with new government directives and information on H1N1. The UMB H1N1 Pandemic Flu Plan was developed and adopted by the University’s Emergency Management Team and approved by UMB President David J. Ramsay, DM, DPhil. For your convenience, a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) has also been prepared. Your primary sources of information regarding an influenza outbreak should be: There are measures that one can take to be better prepared. Everyone should follow these common sense recommendations from health care professionals and agencies: - Get vaccinated for seasonal flu and H1N1 flu. Additional information about the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine will be posted when available. People at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 flu complications include pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes). For more information about priority groups for vaccination, visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/acip.htm.
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
- Practice respiratory etiquette by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues and then wash your hands. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; germs are spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people, as the influenza virus is spread person-to-person mainly through coughing or sneezing.
- If you have a fever and other flu-like symptoms, do not come to work or attend classes. See your health care provider if necessary. Do not return to work or attend classes until you have recovered.
Additional information is available at the following resources: |
