The Office of Education Abroad
H1N1 Virus Updates
The information below was last updated September 08, 2009
The Office of Education Abroad, along with health and safety officials and other key members of the university community are monitoring daily the development of the H1N1 virus (swine flu), both domestically and abroad. As we make decisions, we are guided by the advice of the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control, and the US Department of State.
On June 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised its alert level to Phase 6, which designates “a global pandemic is underway.” It is important to note that “WHO’s decision to raise the pandemic alert level to Phase 6 is a reflection of the spread of the virus, not the severity of illness caused by the virus.” Read more about this at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU/.
Those going abroad may encounter travel delays (such as health screenings at airports) while traveling. More information is available at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/news-announcements/delays-H1N1-screening.aspx.
The World Health Organization is not recommending restricting travel due to the outbreak of the H1N1 virus (http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/guidance/public_health/travel_advice/en/index.html).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide an update on the global situation as well as recommendations for travelers at every stage of their trip: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/outbreak-notice/novel-h1n1-flu-global-situation.aspx
Additional resources about the virus:
Information and FAQ on the H1N1 virus that is geared specifically towards citizens traveling or already abroad: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1181.html
CDC FAQ and recommendations: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/swineflu_you.htm
Everyday actions to stay healthy: http://www.health.athens.oh.us/swine_flu.html
Individuals with either chronic or acute conditions that are at higher risk for viral infection should contact a physician for additional guidance.
Ohio University students abroad are also enrolled in medical insurance through HTH and can also contact them for help seeking medical assistance (www.hthstudents.com or 1-610-254-8771).
Please feel free to call the Office of Education Abroad at 740-593-4583 should you have questions. As the situation develops and changes, we will post updates to this site and communicate with students via e-mail.
