Regarding Domestic Infections of the New Influenza (H1N1) (4th Edition)

May 26th, 2009

To: All Students, Faculty and Staff Members of Kyushu University

Katsumi Imaizumi
WG Manager, Kyushu University Pandemic Influenza Crisis Management Headquarters

Regarding Domestic Infections of the New Influenza (H1N1)
(4th Edition)

  The national government has adopted a new flu policy that designates infected areas under one of two categories according to the degree of infection in each area, instead of applying uniform countermeasures to all affected areas in the nation. The decision was made as evidence mounted that symptoms caused by this strain of influenza are similar to seasonal influenza.
  The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry has set additional guidelines regarding requests for school closures.
  According to the guidelines, in areas where the infection is in its early stage and where there are only a few cases, universities may take countermeasures based on their own judgment, including the suspension of classes as stipulated in the previous policy, with the utmost caution to minimize spread of the infection.
  In line with this policy change, Kyushu University asks everyone to comply with the following instructions:

1. Individuals or those with family members who have shown symptoms of influenza.
  If students, faculty, staff or their families display any symptoms of influenza, please immediately consult the Fever Consultation Center in your residential area (*1) and then receive an examination at a designated hospital. Students, faculty and staff who have tested positive for the new influenza virus need to report the results to the staff in charge of their faculty.
  These same instructions apply to those who have been identified by public health centers or other administrative authorities as having had close contact with influenza patients.

2. Individuals traveling abroad or returning home from abroad
　We urge that you consider canceling or postponing any trips to countries and regions where the new influenza (H1N1) outbreaks have been confirmed or are suspected, unless the trip is urgent or necessary. If there is an unavoidable reason for the trip, please take preventative measures such as avoiding crowds, wearing a mask, and frequently gargling and washing hands. If you notice any change in your health, such as chills, shivering, fever or cough after returning from an affected country or region, please follow the instructions described above (1. Individuals or those with family members who have shown symptoms of influenza).
　For seven days after you have departed the affected country or region, please keep records of your body temperature and health condition by filling out the “Health Check Sheet.”

”Health Check Sheet” (Microsoft Word)

3．Individuals traveling to affected areas in Japan
　We urge that you consider canceling or postponing business or private trips to areas in Japan where new influenza (H1N1) outbreaks have been confirmed, unless the trip is urgent or necessary. If there is an unavoidable reason for the trip, please take preventative measures such as avoiding crowds, wearing a mask, and frequently gargling and washing hands. If you notice any change in your health, such as chills, shivering, fever or cough after returning from an affected country or region, please follow the instructions described above (1. Individuals or those with family members who have shown symptoms of influenza).      For seven days after you have departed the affected area, please keep records of your body temperature and health condition by filling out the “Health Check Sheet.”

4. General Prevention Measures against Infection of the New Virus
  We urge you to wear a mask when you go outside, gargle and wash your hands when you arrive home, and observe the rules of etiquette when you cough in public.

(*1) Fukuoka City Fever Consultation Center (Telephone Consultation Service)

■ Related Websites
Kyushu University (PC)
http://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/index.php
Kyushu University (mobile)
http://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/mobile/mobile_top.html