The University of the West Indies, (UWI) Mona is continuing to monitor the situation in light of the outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) on the campus.  At a meeting of the monitoring committee held on Friday, September 11, 2009, it was noted that most affected persons have presented with mild flu-like symptoms and that the majority have had a full recovery within 36-hours.

The committee also heard that there has been a decline in the number of persons presenting with flu like symptoms on a daily basis. However the University Health Centre has advised that the decline is not yet to the point of zero (0) new suspected cases.

The University reiterates that neither suspension of classes nor closure of the institution is warranted at this time based on the epidemiological data. However, in light of the fact that premature resumption of social activities could trigger a second wave of the epidemic, and in order to ensure that the situation does not escalate, The UWI, Mona has taken the decision to postpone all social events for a further four days, that is, to Wednesday, September 16, 2009.

Members of staff, students and the wider community are again reminded of their personal responsibility to help slow the spread of the flu virus through regular washing of hands with soap and water, the use of hand sanitisers, and the proper disposal of tissue with respiratory mucus. Additionally, persons experiencing flu-like symptoms should stay away from other persons and are encouraged to visit the Health Centre to be assessed.

The situation will again be reviewed on Wednesday, September 16, 2009. Further updates will be provided as necessary. Information may also be accessed from the University’s website at http://www.mona.uwi.edu/notices/h1n1/.