The University of Lethbridge is not immune to the spread of the H1N1 Influenza virus and University officials are asking students, staff and faculty to step up their efforts in halting the rapid movement of this illness.

In recent days, there has been a substantial increase in H1N1 Influenza cases and suspected cases in the Lethbridge area. This increased activity has been most apparent in schools and has begun to filter into the University of Lethbridge community with a spike in the number of persons signed into the Illness Registry.

"We've seen increased activity in local schools and that has started to show up here as well," says Lori Weber, RN/manager of the University of Lethbridge Health Centre. "We are connected to the community, many of our staff and faculty have children in the school system so there is an increased risk of exposure to the virus. Now is not the time to be complacent about the practices we've been preaching, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth frequently.
"This is a real threat and it is on our doorstep."

It is extremely important to be vigilant in practicing protocols that stem the spread of the H1N1 virus, especially as it begins to affect a larger segment of the University population. Washing your hands and sanitizing your work areas are essential practices. Inform yourself about how to best avoid contracting H1N1 Influenza by visiting the University's dedicated website at www.uleth.ca/ross/health_centre/h1n1.

Should you come down with flu-like symptoms, log into the University's Illness Registry by following the Got Flu icon on the H1N1 Influenza website and stay home.