| Q: Why are we preparing for Avian Flu? |
A: An outbreak of Avian Flu could cause an interruption in the University’s operations and perhaps shut down our campus. There have been cases reported in several foreign countries. As we’ve seen with natural disasters, like Hurricane Katrina, it is better to be over-prepared, and ready for all contingencies, than to be taken by surprise.
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| Q: Can Avian Flu be prevented by a vaccine or treated with medication? |
A: Some clinical trials for vaccines are under way. Tamiflu® and Relenza® are oral antivirals that are currently available and have been proven effective in reducing the severity and duration of the illness.
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Q: Will there be stockpiles (easy availability) of Tamiflu® and Relenza®?
Can/should I get a prescription now? |
A: The U.S. government is stockpiling Tamiflu® and Relenza®, but does not yet have enough available for everyone. People are NOT advised to obtain prescriptions of the medications now. An overwhelming rush to stockpile the drugs would create a shortage and would make the medication unavailable for people who may need it.
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| Q: Is Avian Flu contagious? |
A: If Avian Flu becomes easily transmitted from human to human then it will be contagious in the same way as the seasonal flu. That’s why taking simple precautions such as hand washing are so important.
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| Q: Can you catch Avian Flu by eating infected poultry? |
A: Currently, there is no evidence that properly cooked poultry (or eggs) are a source of infection.
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| Q: How can I reduce my chances of becoming infected with the avian flu? |
A: Wash your hands! Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water is a simple but affective way to reduce your chances of becoming infected with the avian flu virus. Keep yourself healthy in general by getting a flu shot, and eating a balanced diet including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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| Q: If there are cases at JCU, what will happen? |
A: The University buildings would close if cases were diagnosed at JCU, but many aspects of the University’s business would continue via the Internet. Classes would be delivered to the extent possible, via other electronic means. Although residence halls would close, JCU would make accommodations, to the extent possible, for those students unable to leave campus.
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| Q: If JCU closes, will employees still be paid? |
A: The University will address this on a case-by-case basis, depending on the duration of the closure and other circumstances. All employees should set up direct deposit, which is the method most likely to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of pay in the event of a closure.
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| Q: Would I be expected to come to work if there’s an outbreak? |
A: Your supervisor will identify and contact employees who will be charged with critical tasks associated with the ongoing functioning of the University in a crisis situation.
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| Q: If Avian Flu hits elsewhere in Ohio or a neighboring state, but not JCU, will JCU close? |
A: If Avian Flu is being spread easily by human-to-human contact in Ohio or neighboring state, it is likely that JCU would be affected as well and would close. Keeping as many people at home as possible would help control the spread of the infection.
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| Q: How will JCU keep faculty, staff, and students up-to-date? |
A: To receive the timeliest information, go to the University Web site at www.jcu.edu. Additionally, information will be disseminated via voicemail broadcasts, e-mail communications, and JCUAlert.
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| Q: Where can I get more information about the avian flu? |
A: More information on the avian flu can be found at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website www.pandemicflu.gov/ and the World Health Organization’s website www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/en/
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