H1N1 Flu Resources & Information for Camps and Parents of Campers

On June 11, 2009 the World Health Organization raised the H1N1 flu virus pandemic alert level from Phase Five to Phase Six. This decision was made based on the spread of the virus rather than the severity of the illness as the H1N1 flu virus continues to spread throughout the world.  In Canada most cases have been mild.  Children and young adults are very susceptible for getting the H1N1 virus.  Summer camps, where large groups of campers and staff gather have the potential to be a ‘breeding ground’ for this virus.  At this time, the primary way to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus is through early identification of ill campers and staff and the implementation of good handwashing and ‘safe cough’ techniques.

Be on the lookout for campers and staff who have:
Temperature of 38C or greater
Either a cough or sore throat
Headache
Tiredness
Body aches
Diarrhea
Vomiting

It is recommended that you:
-Screen all campers, staff and visitors on arrival at camp by asking them:

• Do you have a new cough, or one that has become worse?
• Are you short of breath?
• Are you feeling feverish?
• Have you been in contact with anyone who has H1N1 in the past 7 days?

-Early recognition and isolation of any camper/staff with a respiratory illness. 
-Make handwashing a priority for everyone at camp. Hand Sanitizers (preferably containing alcohol) should be readily   available and utilized. 
-Encourage everyone to cough or sneeze into their sleeves and limit hugging and kissing.
-Do not overcrowd bunks.  Arrange beds so campers lie head-to-toe or toe-to-toe.
-Careful housekeeping especially in high touch areas – washrooms, door handles, etc.
-Wash down dining room tables with a disinfectant product after meals.
If you suspect that a camper or staff has H1N1 it is recommended that you contact your local Public Health Unit for their assistance.  Alberta Camping Association staff are also available with support & further information.

LINKS:

http://www.health.alberta.ca/health-info/influenza-H1N1.html (for more AB information)
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/camp.htm (American Centre for Disease Control)
www.CampParents.org/questions_regarding_H1N1.php (Video from American Camps Association)
http://www.acn.org/healthalert/swineflu.html (American Association of Camp Nurses– info sheet)

Thanks to the OCA Health & Wellness Committee for help in developing this statement