Kasteel Well H1N1 Flu Information
October 26, 2009
To the Kasteel Well Community:
This is to inform you of the current status of the H1N1 measures that are being taken at the Emerson College European Center at Kasteel Well. In the Netherlands, vaccination for both the seasonal flu and the H1N1-type influenza is currently restricted to those individuals belonging to high-risk groups. However, based on the fact that we are a campus-based program (which is an exception in the Netherlands) and the fact that our students travel, we were successful in having our student population designated as a high-risk group, thereby qualifying for vaccination under the current program.
The vaccination of our students, faculty and staff runs parallel with the general vaccination program in the Netherlands. This means that those students, faculty and staff who opt for vaccination will be vaccinated on the castle premises by the staff of our local GP-clinic. The protocol in the Netherlands specifies that the necessary shots are administered with a period of two to three weeks in between. Vaccination is strongly advised but voluntary.
The vaccination schedule is as follows:
- Seasonal Influenza Vaccination: Tuesday, November 3, 5:30pm - 6:00 pm, €25.
- H1N1 Influenza Vaccination: Tuesday, November 17, 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm, €25.
- Second round of H1N1 Influenza Vaccination: Tuesday, December 8, 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm, €25.
The cost to any student who chooses all three vaccinations will be €50 total.
Though it is not required, it is strongly advised that the seasonal flu shot be administered prior to the two H1N1 shots. Those who decide to take only the H1N1 vaccine must take both rounds. For anyone who cannot be on-campus during the above times, alternate arrangements will be made. More information may be obtained from the Kasteel Well Office of Student Affairs.
In the event of a possible H1N1 infection, our GP-clinic follows the regular Dutch protocol, established by our National Health Council and the GP Advisory Board. Patients suffering from both regular seasonal flu and H1N1 flu are actively discouraged from visiting the Health Clinic, since there is the risk of contaminating other patients or clinic staff. So far, the disease normally seems to develop in much the same way as a mild influenza, which is best dealt with by the patient resting in bed. However, if complications or high fever occur, or if the patient in question suffers from heart- or lung-conditions, the GP will of course make a house call.
Any student who does become sick with the flu should isolate themselves as much as possible from others to minimize spread. Stay out of class, work and social settings; do not travel; and rest as much as possible. It is advisable for all castle students to consult the website of the Center for Health and Wellness at Emerson College regarding flu prevention and preparedness, and also speak with their families prior to signing up for vaccination. Further information regarding policies and implementation of seasonal and H1N1 flu shots will be posted on this website.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact either Chester_Lee@emerson.edu or Rob_Duckers@emerson.edu.
Kind regards,
Rob Dückers, Assistant Director
Administration and Management
Chester Lee, Assistant Director
Academic Support Services
