News

[2009.5.27]
Swine influenza update #2

To KU students, employees and the KU community,

Swine influenza update #2

Situation updates
The first cases of the virus were detected in Mexico, and the continued spread of infections has been escalating across the world. Confirmed swine flu cases in Japan surged mainly in Kansai, Kanto and Kyushu (Fukuoka) over the last few weeks, and the nation is on high alert to prevent a pandemic. Currently there is no official report on new flu infection in Kumamoto, whereas cases of regular seasonal flu (mostly type B) have been confirmed.

Although most cases of the new virus remain mild, much worse wave of the flu might come along in autumn and there is the possibility of severe complications. Please act calmly and appropriately as a vaccine for the new swine flu in humans could take months to develop, manufacture and distribute widely. Kumamoto University does not officially prohibit visit to the flu affected areas in order to keep study/research related activities on-going, however, if you need to visit and stay in one of the areas, bear in mind the following precautions to prevent flu infection and monitor your health carefully for approximately seven days after return.

Swine flu precautions
Regular flu precautions are effective for reducing your chances of contracting this new strain of virus. Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria. Swine flu is airborne and contagious. Exposure to someone with swine flu could infect you. You could also catch swine flu by direct contact or touching someone who is sick.

Influenza spreads between humans through respiratory droplets by coughing or sneezing. Also, small droplets containing the virus can linger on surfaces such as tabletops and be transferred via the fingers to the mouth, nose or eyes. Face masks help stop droplets from spreading from the person wearing the mask. They also protect the wearer's mouth and nose from splashes. If you can’t buy disposable masks, gauze masks can be used instead.

Treatment
If you have a high fever or have any suspicious symptoms of swine flu such as cough, sore throat and body ache, contact local ‘Hatsunetsu Sodan Center (High-fever Consultation Center)’ to seek advice. In addition, you can contact Kumamoto University Health Care Center (Ph342-2164 Note:The Center cannot provide medical treatment or tests). If you are diagnosed with swine flu, you are not allowed to come to the university to work or study for two days after the fever is gone. In that case, please report to the appropriate Office or Faculty/School.

If you have had close contact with a sick person with swine flu, or if any family member got sick, it is strongly recommended that you stay at home for four days to confirm that you are not infected. You should report to the appropriate Office or Faculty/School as well if this is the case.