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Flu Pandemic Advice

Steps to take to prevent cross infection

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
  • Use a tissue if possible. Wash hands afterwards.
  • Dispose of tissues promptly and carefully.
  • Don't share unwashed cutlery or cups.
  • Wipe shared surfaces such as door handles, telephones, computer keyboards, kitchen worktops etc.
  • Avoid non-essential travel and large group gatherings.
  • Be aware that the intake of excessive alcohol/smoke can have a detrimental effect on the immune system.

Recognising the symptoms of swine flu

Symptoms may include: a high temperature, cough, aching limbs/joints, headaches, sore throat, stomach upset, loss of appetite and generally feeling unwell.

It is particularly important that those in designated 'vulnerable' groups act swiftly if they notice symptoms. These groups are: those who have had treatment for asthma in the past 3 years; pregnant women; those aged 65 and over; children under 5; those with chronic lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease or neurological disease; those with immunosuppression (whether caused by disease or treatment); those with diabetes.

What to do if you think you have swine flu

  • Minimise contact with others and stay in your room.
  • Contact NHS Direct: 0800 1 513 513. They will be able to tell you over the telephone if you have swine flu; the diagnosis will be based on your symptoms. Please note that laboratory testing is no longer being carried out.
    DO NOT go into your GPs surgery or to hospital, as you may spread the disease to others.
  • You may also wish to use the following websites for advice:
    • University's pandemic flu website: www.ox.ac.uk/flu
    • University's pandemic flu information line: 0800 1 383 600

  • You may also wish to use the following public websites and information:
  • If you are unwell please complete the St Hugh's Flu Pandemic reporting form found here if you are a student.


This will enable the Senior Tutor to inform your tutors of your illness and for the college to notify the appropriate staff to provide catering (where this is feasible).

If you are a Tutorial Fellow please contact the Senior Tutor. Domestic staff should inform the Lodge. Other admin staff should contact their Head of Department.

Please note that you can also use the Pandemic reporting form to report on another St Hugh's student illness and/or are invited to get in direct contact with the Senior Tutor, Accommodation and Facilities Manager or College Nurse.

If your symptoms get worse

High temperature remaining for more than 4 days
Difficulty with breathing 
Coughing up blood
Drowsiness or confusion

Contact the College GP on 01865 515552 or the College Nurse on 01865 274945