Information for Cambridge Students
As you will be aware the summer months saw a significant number of swine flu (H1N1 virus) cases in the UK. Though this may now have peaked, we expect the autumn to bring a wave of new cases. For the vast majority of individuals, the H1N1 virus has produced symptoms that are comparatively mild and brief, if unpleasant. The purpose of this note is to reassure students contemplating coming up to Cambridge, and concerned family members, that the Colleges and University have comprehensive plans in place consistent with National Health Service and Health Protection Agency advice. These will enable any students who are taken ill, including those with pre-existing medical conditions and others considered particularly vulnerable, to receive the care they need while they are unwell in Cambridge. The University and Colleges will respond with appropriate urgency if the condition of any individual deteriorates suddenly, both for the sake of the individual and to minimise the risk of spreading the infection to others living or working nearby.
The plans are a simple adaptation for a College setting of the advice given to all members of the public to find “flu friends”, who will access medication and provide fluids and food. They reflect the fact that newcomers to Cambridge may need help in getting care and medication from one of the City’s antiviral collection points. Those who return to Cambridge know that they can rely on the good will and responsible behaviour of all members of College communities in working closely with the College (including the College Nurse and Tutorial team) to help each other to continue normal academic and social life as far as possible.
