The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reissued advice for minimising the spread of seasonal illnesses as children return to school and many people will be returning to workplaces after annual leave. They advise that individuals stay at home if unwell, but, if they do need to go out, to wear a face covering.
We know seasonal illnesses often resurge at this time of year and ask staff to remind themselves of the guidance for our community, particularly in light of the acute pressure on the NHS.
Southampton General and Princess Anne Hospitals have further measures appropriate to their settings, and colleagues and students in these areas have been notified about them.
For other parts of our University, our current measures and guidance remain in place:
- Please stay at home if you feel unwell.
- Maintain good hand hygiene – this is a simple precaution we can all take to help prevent the spread of illnesses. The University will continue to provide hand sanitiser in our buildings.
- Wearing face coverings in our buildings is a matter of personal choice. Please continue to be respectful and considerate of those that choose to wear them – each individual circumstance will be different.
- It is important to remember that many colleagues and students will have travelled, or be travelling, to and from countries where there are increased measures still in place, and who may feel more comfortable continuing to wear face coverings, amongst other measures.
- We encourage all our community to get vaccinated if you have not already done so, including any booster jabs available.
- The Estates and Facilities teams continue to monitor and maintain ventilation systems, prioritising spaces in-line with legislation, best practice and health and safety guidance.
- Estates and Facilities will also continue with processes put in place over the last two years to maximise natural and mechanical ventilation.
We are well prepared should any changes to our guidance or measures be required and will update colleagues and students accordingly.
