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H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

November 13, 2009

BCIT is continuing to monitor the potential and actual impacts of the H1N1 Influenza virus and will continue to work closely with the public health authorities. With the current severity of the virus, it is important to ensure that proper processes are in place.

It is suggested that all BCIT students follow these recommendations:

  • If you are ill, please stay home.
  • For short term illnesses less than five days, BCIT is temporarily suspending its policy requiring a Doctor's note to excuse the absence. This will be monitored and adjusted as appropriate.
  • In all absentee cases, students must contact their Instructor, Program Head or Chief Instructor to make plans to accommodate an absence.
  • Extended absences will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis by the programs.
  • For those students in programs where attendance is regulated by a third party, we ask that you refer to your Program Head or Chief Instructor regarding attendance and/or accommodations.

H1N1 Vaccine

As of November 13, BCIT has exhausted the current supply of the H1N1 vaccine.

The H1N1 Influenza and Seasonal Influenza vaccine shots were available at Student Health Services at BCIT beginning Wednesday, October 28.
 
Phase 1: Complete

From October 28 to October 30, Student Health Services provided the H1N1 and Seasonal Flu vaccine to those:

  • Under the age of 65, with high-risk medical conditions (heart and lung conditions, congestive heart failure, liver disease including hepatitis, diabetes, cancer, anemia or weakened immune systems, kidney disease, neuromuscular disorders, asthma, chronic pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis)
  • Women in the second half of pregnancy (over 20 weeks)
  • Persons living in remote and isolated settings or communities (including all First Nations people living on-reserve).

Phase 2: Ongoing

From November 4 to November 12, Student Health Services provided the H1N1 and Seasonal Flu vaccine to:

  • All initial groups (see list above)
  • Household contacts and care providers of infants less than six months of age and persons whose immune systems are compromised

Please note: Following Phase 2, all others who require the H1N1 vaccine will be notified here with an available date and time. Please check this website on a regular basis for further information about upcoming clinics and exact delivery dates of additional vaccine.

Find further information on available H1N1 vaccination clinics in the Lower Mainland or try the new H1N1 symptom checker at HealthLinkBC