How to reduce the spread of Swine Flu

Advice issued to students 13 October 2009

What support will be provided by the University?

For those staying in University Accommodation

• You will soon make friends in your accommodation and these new friends make great flu friends.
• If you have any difficulty with finding a flu friend please contact your sub warden, or residential advisor.
• Register with a doctor. The University recommends that you register with the Freemen's Common Student Health Centre. Tel 0844 8151 105
• Keep yourself updated about swine flu. Information from the National Health Service and the University is regularly updated on this University swine flu website.
• Keep in regular touch with your family to let them know how you are. The University hopes to avoid being inundated with calls from anxious parents.
• Good hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infection - you will find information in your welcome pack and on posters displayed around halls of residence as well as on the university’s swine flu web site. Please ensure you read and follow the guidance.

For those in Private Accommodation

Register with a GP - Freemen's Common Health Centre will register students in the local area. If you do not live within the catchment area, you can find a GP or Health Centre on the NHS Choices website.

Confirm a network of 'Flu Friends' who will keep in touch and help you look after yourself if you develop flu.

I think I have Swine Flu, what should I do?

• Stay at home
• Contact your flu friends
• Check your symptoms using the NHS flu symptom checker.
• If you are still concerned:
• visit the National Pandemic Flu Service website
• call the NHS Swine Flu Information Line: 0800 1513513 (lines open from 8.00am - midnight)
• Call 0800 1513100 or text phone 0800 1513200 for treatment (lines open 8.00am - midnight)

Do not go to your GP's surgery unless advised to do so by NHS Direct or the Swine Flu Information Line

You should call your GP directly if you have an underlying illness, you are pregnant, you have a sick child under one year old, your condition suddenly gets much worse or your condition is still getting worse after seven days (or five days for a child)

• If any of these health care services advise you to remain at home you should contact your Department and inform them.
• Complete a University Self Certificate Sickness Form. This normally covers five days; however for this illness it will extend to seven days and a doctor’s certificate will not be required.
• Follow the self care advice provided by the national health service
• If you are in University accommodation inform the hall manager, reception, sub warden or residential adviser