H1N1 Information and Prevention

TO:        HR Representatives

FROM:        Stephen Lund, Director, Academic Personnel Office;  Mark Walters, Director, Classified Human Resources

RE:        Flu Pandemic HR Guidelines Rescinded

Effective immediately, the requirements within the flu pandemic HR guidelines that were implemented in September of 2009 are now rescinded. This action is prompted by the H1N1 virus subsiding drastically within the population.  The provisions within the various divisional attendance policies can be reinstituted. This includes the ability to count as an unexcused absence an employee’s absence based on their (or immediate family member’s) flu-like-symptoms. UW-System has also reinstated the requirement that unclassified employees need a note from a health care provider if absent from work for five consecutive days due to illness.

Please inform employees within your division that all past HR policies regarding attendance are now reinstated.

Many of the activities that were implemented as part of the H1N1 outbreak are best practices that should continue to be encouraged on campus. This would include:

–   staying/going home when experiencing flu-like symptoms or unable to effectively perform duties due to illness;

–   washing hands or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer regularly;

–   covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirtsleeve (using hand is less helpful as this may unintentionally pass a virus through contact); and
–   receiving an annual flu vaccine.

These precautions should always be practiced regardless of whether heightened health risks are present on campus.

Although the H1N1 flu outbreak was quite challenging, the planning and policy implementation that occurred as a result has made UW-Madison significantly more prepared for future health issues. The diligence of all members of the UW community to limit the spread of H1N1 should be commended.

If you have any questions, please contact either of us.

There are several new opportunities for UW-Madison faculty and staff to receive both seasonal and H1N1 vaccinations in January.

All employees can receive seasonal and H1N1 flu shot injections (but not nasal mist spray) on campus this Wednesday, Jan. 6, at the Waisman Center, Rm. 120-122, from 9 am.-3 p.m. (This clinic was rescheduled due to the weather-related university closing on December 9.)

There will be two more employee clinics this month, also offering both seasonal and H1N1 influenza vaccinations.

–Wednesday, Jan. 13 at Ingraham Hall, Rm. 103.

–Friday, Jan. 22, at the Welcome Center, 21 N. Park St., Rm. 5045.

Both clinics will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Read more »

Injectable seasonal flu shots will be offered to faculty and staff at a number of campus locations next week, Dec. 7-11.

Seasonal flu vaccine is particularly recommended for those over 50, those who have chronic medical conditions or those who are pregnant. It is also advised for anyone who wants to reduce the chance of getting seasonal flu.

All campus clinics will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dates and locations are:

— Monday, Dec. 7: Grainger Hall, Room 3190

— Tuesday, Dec. 8: Medical Sciences Center, Room 2010

— Wednesday, Dec. 9: Waisman Center, Room 120-122

— Thursday, Dec. 10: Welcome Center, Room 1106

— Friday, Dec. 11: Ingraham Hall, Room 103 Read more »

Update from Public Health Madison-Dane County: The clinic held Tuesday, Nov. 17 has been running smoothly and there is little to no waiting time for H1N1 vaccine. Since there is still plenty of vaccine available the clinics will be expanded to include:

• Pregnant women, children 6 months through 4 years, and people who live with or care for those less than 6 months.

• Anyone with an underlying health condition, with no age restriction (children and adults).

Clinics are located at the Exhibition Hall, Alliant Energy Center and are:

• Open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17

• 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18

This is a great opportunity for free H1N1 vaccinations, especially for preschool children. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Gates to the Alliant Energy Center will open 30 minutes before the clinic opens. There will be no early admittance. Read more »

The Office of Child Care and Family Resources has compiled a useful set of guidelines and information for parents utilizing UW-Madison child care centers during a time of pandemic. The documents outline frequently asked questions and advice for transitioning your son or daughter to a different child care setting in the event that your primary center would be closed or unavailable.

Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

Suggestions for Transitioning Your Child (PDF)