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Emergency Procedures

SMCCCD Home Emergency Management Emergency Procedures Seasonal Flu and Pandemic Influenza

Seasonal Flu and Pandemic Influenza

Influenza or flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by particular strains of viruses. Seasonal flu occurs every year, typically in the fall and winter. A pandemic flu is a global outbreak of the influenza disease that occurs when a new influenza virus appears in the human population. Because this population has little or no immunity to the new strain, serious illness can occur, and the virus can spread easily and rapidly from person to person.

In the event of a pandemic outbreak in the United States, campus officials will work closely with the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Emergency Operation Center (EOC), under the guidance of the San Mateo County Public Health Department, and the San Mateo County Department of Emergency Management. The SMCCCD will additionally follow the recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine the best course of action to reduce disease transmission. 

In the event that a pandemic poses a threat to the university community, campus officials will issue regular updates via the use of the web, email, telephone, and other media, depending upon their continued availability. Advisories to staff members will be issued through Human Resources, faculty will be directed through deans and department chair, and students will receive information from the Chancellor.

Flu prevention recommendations:

  • Get a seasonal flu shot when they are available. Consult with your healthcare provider or contact your campus Health & Wellness Center
  • Contact the Health and Wellness Center for information on campus vaccine programs
  • Keep yourself healthy and your immune system strong with regular exercise, nutritious meals, sufficient sleep, and adequate hydration 
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth Germs are often spread when a person touches a contaminated object, and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth
  • Avoid sharing utensils, water bottles, towels, or bedding without first washing these items with soap and hot water
  • Clean surfaces soiled with bodily fluids with a household disinfectant (Use gloves while cleaning)
  • Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw tissue in trash after use. If tissue is not available, direct the cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow, not into your hands. Wash or sanitize your hands after sneezing. 
  • Stay home from work, classes, and errands when sick with a fever and/or actively coughing Avoid contact with people when you are symptomatic to avoid infecting them
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Stay informed about developments regarding a pandemic influenza by visiting the SMCCCD homepage and the Office of Emergency Management website at emergency.smccd.info