Information for Faculty, Instructors and Staff
According to public health authorities, the best way to reduce the spread of the H1N1 flu virus, like any flu, is to practise good infection prevention behaviours:
- wash your hands frequently
- cough and sneeze into your elbow/sleeve rather than your hand
- stay home if you are sick with influenza-like illness (fever and cough)
- minimize physical contact with others
Communication about the H1N1 flu virus is available through:
- updates to this website
- announcements to the university community through PAWS
- email and broadcast messages
Should the H1N1 flu virus lead to changes in the availability of services at the University of Saskatchewan, information will be posted at Service Updates.
The following informational fact sheets, developed by the Saskatoon Health Region, are available for your use:
For additional information on the H1N1 flu virus visit Saskatchewan Health.
Frequently asked questions and answers for University of Saskatchewan faculty and staff:
If my child gets sick because of the H1N1 flu virus will I lose holidays or pay?
If you are not able to come into work because your child is sick, there are a number of ways to account for your time. The best approach is to consult with your manager or supervisor and agree how the time will be accounted for.
If I have to cover for someone who is sick with the H1N1 flu virus will I get extra pay?
Any form of pay for additional time or overtime will be applied as per the collective agreement.
What if I am sick with the H1N1 flu virus longer than my allotted number of sick days, will I lose pay?
If an employee exhausts all available sick time, he/she has the option of applying for Short Term Disability benefits and/or Long Term Disability Benefits. Eligibility and approval will be based in accordance with the terms and conditions of the benefit plan applicable to the employee in question. Questions regarding applying for either Short Term Disability Benefits or Long Term Disability Benefits should be directed to the Health and Wellness Centre.
What if my co-worker comes to work ill with the H1N1 flu virus? What should I do?
You should make yourself aware of the symptoms of this type of illness. If you observe these symptoms with a co-worker, you should ensure that they are aware of the symptoms as well. Exercise the normal precautions of washing hands regularly and the appropriate procedure for sneezing and coughing into your sleeve/elbow rather than your hand.
My unit doesn’t have a pandemic plan. What should I do?
Information and resources for managers related to pandemic planning is available on this website (www.usask.ca/pandemic).
I need help creating my pandemic plan. Who can help me?
Contact 966- 2000 or email flu_info@usask.ca for assistance.
What resources are available to me to help me create my pandemic plan?
Information and resources for managers related to pandemic planning is available on this website (www.usask.ca/pandemic).
