INU news - July 2009

Updates on the swine influenza A(H1N1) pandemic

As the INU has many activities involving travelling, the INU would like to ask students and staff to stay updated on guidelines regarding the swine influenza A(H1N1).

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concerns about the outbreak of a new strain of swine influenza, A(H1N1) virus. The virus is since June 11th 2009 classified as a 6 on the WHO pandemic scale, which means that the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met. WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the swine influenza pandemic. Please note though, that people who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who become ill should contact their health care provider.

While there is currently no cause for alarm, nor any evidence that any INU activities will be affected by the pandemic, the INU would still advise all student and staff participants to stay informed. The WHO advises people to go to reliable sources of information, including your national Ministry of Health, to learn what you can do to protect yourself and stay updated as the pandemic evolves.

Please visit the World Health Organisation to learn more about the swine influenza and how you can protect yourself.

For students and staff travelling to Hiroshima, Japan in August 2009

Please visit the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare website for general information.

Ministry of Health Labor and Welfare: General Information

Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare: Prevention and treatment

The policies of Hiroshima University can be found below

Hiroshima University: Swine Flu Information and Countermeasures