Free Mumps Immunization
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
To: All University of Lethbridge Students
On Oct. 30, 2007, Alberta Health and Wellness and the Chinook Health Region jointly announced a mumps immunization program for young adults born in or after 1970 who are students or employees of the University of Lethbridge or Lethbridge College. That information is on the Notice Board at www.uleth.ca/notice.
What does this mean to you?
There are three key messages for University students:
1. GET IMMUNIZED! The upcoming immunization clinics will provide FREE mumps vaccinations to help avoid illness.
November 2, 2007 – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in the Atrium
November 8, 2007 – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in the Atrium
November 13, 2007 – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in SU Ballroom B
November 15, 2007 – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in SU Ballroom A
November 20, 2007 – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in the Atrium
Students can also access off-campus immunizations November 1, 5 and 7 at Exhibition Pavilion between 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Students need to bring their provincial health cards and University ID cards to the immunization clinics.
Why do you need to get immunized?
Mumps is a contagious virus (spread by contact with nose and throat secretions) that causes low-grade fever, loss of appetite, headaches and swelling of the glands in the cheeks. You can be exposed to mumps and have no symptoms for 14 to 25 days. You are contagious from up to 7 days before your symptoms show until 9 days after your symptoms start. Some serious health problems can result from having mumps.
2. If you are ill and suspect mumps, please note:
You must contact your physician’s office prior to arriving in order to make arrangements for you to be isolated from others in the waiting area. The U of L Health Centre’s phone number is 329-2484. The physician may order throat swabs and/or urine or blood tests. You must stay away from school or work until the lab tests are back. You require a note from the physician regarding your absence from school or work. Results may take 2 to 10 days. If mumps is confirmed, then you must stay away from school or work for 9 days after the onset of symptoms.
3. How to prevent the spread of mumps: To avoid spreading the illness through saliva or mucous contact, wash your hands frequently, do not share drinks or any items where saliva or mucous is present, and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Please practice good hygiene.
MORE INFORMATION
Information will be regularly updated on the U of L Notice Board (www.uleth.ca/notice) and other campus web sites. As well, handouts about the mumps will be available in numerous locations across campus.
U of L students with questions should contact Student Health Educator/RN Dianne Carter at 403-329-2429.