Well, the second issue of the Projector came out, and I was fortunate enough to have another story published. This story was about H1N1, and focussed on RRC specifically. I wanted to write about the symptoms of H1N1, and also wanted to inform students about measures that would be taken if a pandemic broke out. I had to do a ton of digging, and I am quite satisfied with the finished product! Enjoy!
As the outside temperature slowly drops, students at Red River College prepare for the rapidly approaching winter. This season, in addition to regular cold and flu precautions, students must be ready for the second wave of the H1N1 flu virus. A vaccine will be made available to all Manitobans in November, yet it is important to understand who H1N1 affects and what precautions should be taken.
When asked to explain his knowledge of H1N1, Digital MultiMedia Technology student Colin Scarfe responded with, “I have no idea.” Andrea Klaverkamp, a first year Business Administration student, commented that newspapers don’t offer much information about H1N1. “I know some people are terrified.” Amanda Misir, also a Business Administration student, explained that “…people should be more informed about what it is, and what people can do to prevent it.” Regarding a RRC Pandemic Plan, Misir also added “I have no idea.”
RRC is currently monitoring absenteeism for both students and staff, and a weekly totally is recorded. The college is currently operating normally, yet all programs may be shut down if a pandemic warning is issued by the Manitoba government. Courses will not be taught through alternate means, such as the internet, during a shut-down period, but communication with students will continue through the media, email, and the RRC website.
David Clark, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for RRC, explained that “although it is a possibility, I believe the chances of Red River College closing due to flu are extremely remote at this point.” He also recommended students “check for new information weekly” on the RRC Website, as updates about the virus will be posted there.
H1N1 may initially seem like a regular flu, but symptoms such as fever, aching joints, and fatigue are warning signs that an individual may have contracted the virus. Symptoms usually last between three to five days, yet cases are rarely life-threatening. Debbie Houston, a Registered Nurse, explained that H1N1 usually has a “72-hour incubation period. Not everyone exposed to the virus will become ill, yet the virus is still in a person’s system, making it possible to pass to others.” H1N1 targets people between 18-50 years of age, putting RRC students and staff in the “primary target” area.
When asked her advice about how RRC students can minimize the second wave of H1N1, Houston’s response was “stay home and take care of yourself.” Following proper etiquette for coughing and sneezing is important, as well as frequent hand washing. Houston also pointed out the importance of hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes, “particularly where there are shares workstations.” Houston’s final advice was that “the message has to be about keeping everyone healthy, and knowing what preventative measures to take.”
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