A(H1N1) influenza announcement #12

Announcement #12 regarding the New Type of Influenza

Changes regarding Travel Abroad

Currently the number of persons infected with the new type of influenza A(H1N1) virus is rapidly increasing in both Hyogo and Osaka Prefectures.
Consequently, Osaka University has decided to align its danger levels of travel abroad with that of the Foreign Ministry for dealing with the spread of the virus and lift some of the previously mentioned restrictions (in announcements #7) concerning travel abroad by Osaka University staff and students.
The two main points being lifted are :

• The restriction on travel abroad
• The restriction to confine oneself to one’s residence for 7 days after returning home from travel abroad.

Nonetheless, please be careful of the following regarding any travel abroad :

• Regardless of whether your travel is official or private, be sure to turn in the proper forms to the appropriate office of your faculty.
• Please pay close attention to the Foreign Ministry website and/or WHO home pages regarding the spread of this new virus when abroad.
• Be aware that many countries are instituting health checks as part of immigration procedures; thus, fever or flu symptoms could be reason for delaying your entry into that country.
• You are strongly urged to postpone travel to Mexico.
• Realize that not only is the virus spreading widely in both the USA and Canada, but that there have been some deaths; therefore, approach travel to such areas with care.

When or if you are abroad :

• Keep abreast of the latest information from WHO or other such sources and observe the guidelines for avoiding infection as set forth in announcements #10 and #11.
• If you contract the new influenza when abroad, please seek treatment from the local health authorities and notify Osaka University at once. (Persons at Osaka University who receive such notifications: please inform the Department of Safety and Hygiene at once.)
• Upon returning from travel abroad:
• The restriction concerning remaining in one’s residence for 7 days has been lifted.
• Be aware that you might be the object of entrance restrictions and/or quarantine upon your re-entry to Japan if you are exhibiting symptoms of influenza.
• Upon return from travel abroad, please monitor your health carefully for one week by taking your temperature daily.
• If you should exhibit symptoms such as fever, coughing, and/or diarrhea, please contact the Department of Safety and Hygiene immediately and follow their instructions.