Current Students' News

Swine Flu Advice for Students

As you are no doubt aware, the World Health Organisation has categorised swine flu as a world-wide pandemic, it is never too early to plan ahead for the possibility of being unwell, and as such the University offers the following advice to all students:

1. Register with a local GP
We recommend that you register with a local GP during your time at the University.  This is free, and can be done online by clicking here and following the instructions.
 
2. Planning for Swine Flu
We recommend that you identify a ‘flu buddy’ who can fetch any prescribed medication and ensure you have adequate food and provisions. Further information about the University's 'Buddy Scheme'. (PDF)
 
We have also compiled a checklist (PDF) to help you to be prepared in case you contract Swine Flu.  
 
If you are living in a shared house or halls accommodation we ask that you consider cleanliness and hygiene, particularly in communal areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, as the flu virus can live on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours, making it very easy to spread to all of your housemates.
 
3. Information and advice
A copy of the NHS Swine Flu information leaflet can be downloaded here
 
4. If you think you may have Swine Flu
If you have flu-like symptoms you should stay at home and drink plenty of fluids. You can take paracetamol-based products to help relieve any temperature.
 
If you are concerned that you may have swine flu (a temperature of 38c or more and two other flu-like symptoms) you should contact the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100 or www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu for a clinical diagnosis. General advice about swine flu is available from the same web address or by calling 0800 1 513513.
 
If you think your symptoms are not related to swine flu please contact your GP. They can advise if your symptoms may relate to another condition as some illnesses have similar early symptoms and can advise you if need to receive medical attention.
 
5. What to do if you are diagnosed with Swine Flu
If you are diagnosed with Swine Flu via the National Pandemic Flu Service, then follow the given advice. 
 
It is recommended that you stay in your flat or house if you are diagnosed with Swine Flu to limit the spread of the virus.  If you wish to travel to your family home, it is suggested that you ask for a family member or friend to take you by car rather than using public transport. 
 
Please inform the University if you are diagnosed with swine flu, and (if applicable) if you are intending to leave University halls of residence accommodation, by contacting your local Student Helpzone on 01242 71 4444 or by e-mail:
helpzonefch@glos.ac.uk ; helpzoneoxstalls@glos.ac.uk ; helpzonepark@glos.ac.uk ; helpzonepittville@glos.ac.uk
 
  
6. Education Placements: What do I do if I think I have swine flu and I am in practice?
Please see the attached document.

7. Department of Health and Social Care Placements: What do I do if I think I have swine flu and I am in practice?
- Social Care and Youth Work Placements
- NHS Related Placements
- Social Work Placements

Stewart Dove
Director of Student Support
 
Dr Robin Hollands
University Medical Officer
 
11/09/09 11:37