H1N1 Flu UpdateNew Absence Reporting Process for Students

Fanshawe College has implemented a new absence reporting process for students. Until further notice, students do not require a doctor's note if they miss school as a result of having flu-like symptoms.

Students must fill out the Absence Form located in the Flu Information section on FanshaweOnline (www.fanshaweonline.ca) prior to missing class and/or an evaluation due to flu-related illness.

Suspending the requirement for a doctor's note does not exempt students from meeting the requirements of each course. Fanshawe will work with students to develop a plan to achieve their learning outcomes.

According to the Middlesex London Health Unit, people with symptoms of influenza can return to school or work when their fever is gone for 24 hours and they are feeling better and fully able to go back to normal activities. A cough may persist for several days to weeks.

For more information on H1N1 (symptoms, caring for yourself and others), please visit http://www.fanshawec.ca/flu/ and the Health Units' websites:

• Elgin St. Thomas Public Health
• Haldimand Norfolk Health Unit
• Middlesex London Health Unit
• Oxford County Board of Health (Woodstock and Tillsonburg area)