Information about swine flu (New Influenza A)

Swine flu (New Influenza A), caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, is a rapidly developing disease of the airways that is caused by the influenza virus. The progress of the disease can vary: from very mild to very severe. Swine flu has reached the stage of a pandemic. The virus is also spreading between humans in the Netherlands. In autumn the disease is expected to spread more quickly. If it spreads much more quickly and a large part of the Dutch population becomes ill at the same time, there may be a threat of social disruption. Assuming that a vaccine will be available by the end of the year, the high-risk period for such a severe epidemic in the Netherlands will run from October to January 2010.

Expectation

The behavior of the H1N1 virus has been quite mild until now. Furthermore, citizens and the government will take measures to stop the disease spreading in the event of a severe epidemic (hygiene measures, travel restrictions, avoiding groups and crowds, cancelling events, possibly closing down schools temporarily). In combination with the options for treatment, the risk of social disruption is not expected to be very high. On the other hand, it is too early to conclude definitively that only this mild form of the flu will occur.

What is Utrecht University doing in the coming summer period?

The further development of New Influenza A (H1N1) is being closely monitored together with government agencies.
In order to minimise the spread of the virus, Utrecht University is providing information on preventive measures to staff and students.
To minimise the consequences of a possible outbreak of the influenza virus, preparations are underway to ensure the continuity of vital university processes in the event of the prolonged absence of a large number of staff and students.

What can you do to prevent infection?

For the coming period we recommend the following:

1. Don't go on holiday to countries with a high risk of infection. For the latest news on passenger advice, you can visit the website of the World Health Organization (WHO).

2. Always pay attention to good personal hygiene, such as regularly washing your hands and using paper tissues. The site of the RIVM information centre (Dutch) gives more practical hygiene measures. See also the practical tips on this website.