April 29, 2009

Human Swine influenza update

For updates throughout the day, visit www.ucalgary.ca/emergencyplan/swineflu

Recent developments in the international outbreak of Human swine influenza will have implications for University of Calgary faculty, staff, researchers and students who are planning international travel in the coming days and weeks.

On Tuesday, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada issued an official warning against all non-essential travel to Mexico. This warning level is classified as an extreme risk situation by the U of C’s Risk Management office, which means travel to Mexico for research, conferences, study or other university-sanctioned purposes is currently prohibited.

Deans, department heads and managers are asked to review the travel plans of their faculty and employees to ensure they meet with current travel warnings and U of C international travel policies. The U of C Risk Management Office should also be informed of any U of C personnel and students currently in Mexico by contacting their office at 403.220.3011 or by email at riskmgmt@ucalgary.ca.

For questions concerning travel to Mexico for research or other academic purposes, please contact the office of the Vice-Provost (International) at 403.220.3672 or email vpi@ucalgary.ca.

U of C students requiring information about the impact of swine flu on travel for courses, exchange programs and field schools should contact the Centre for International Students & Study Abroad at 403.220.5581.

For questions relating to health issues and personal travel plans, or to discuss health problems after returning from international travel, contact your personal physician, Health Link Alberta at 403.943.5465 or the U of C Wellness Centre in MacEwan Student Centre Room 370, 403.210.9355.

The influenza outbreak is a fluid and evolving situation. For updated information on the outbreak as it affects U of C activities, please visit www.ucalgary.ca/emergencyplan/swineflu. This site is being updated daily.