The World Health Organization has upgraded the H1N1 influenza alert to level 6 which signals a world-wide pandemic. While there are no specific university travel restrictions at this time, all those scheduled to travel in the near future should be aware of health conditions occurring at their destinations.

UWF asks campus community members to be particularly vigilant with your health and follow the guidelines for travelers as outlined by the CDC (information about symptoms and prevention http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/study-abroad.aspx ). Those individuals who are travelling to the Southern Hemisphere (where it is now flu season) should also speak to a health care professional about getting a seasonal flu vaccine – it will not prevent the H1N1, but it could prevent you from getting other cases of the flu that would seriously disrupt your foreign experience.

In addition, we remind you to prepare for thorough health screenings when traveling (visit CDC: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/news-announcements/delays-H1N1-screening.aspx ). Remember, please DO NOT TRAVEL WITH SYMPTOMS OF THE H1N1 FLU! UWF also advises that you regularly visit the Web site of the U.S. embassy in the country to which you are going (look for “Warden” Messages generally located on the right-hand side of their home page).

Once you arrive at your foreign destination, you may be required to check in regularly with local/university health authorities. Certain countries, particularly those which were threatened by SARS in 2003, will be even more vigilant.

Out of concern for their health, and the health of those with whom they live and work, UWF faculty, staff or students who choose to travel to areas of the world significantly affected by H1N1 flu are expected to monitor their health closely for seven days following their return. Should they develop a fever of more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), body aches, a cough and/or a sore throat, they should contact a health care provider immediately and inform the provider of recent international travel.

For more specific information, contact the UWF Office of Diversity and International Education at (850) 474-2479 or e-mail intered@uwf.edu.