As the number of H1N1 flu cases continues to increase in the Mid-South, it is the intent of the University of Memphis to protect students, employees, and normal operations to the greatest extent possible. Current policies regarding use of sick and annual leave remain in effect.

However, following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control, should you become ill, please stay home and away from others. When you have been fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication for 24 hours, you may return to work.

University department heads and supervisory personnel are being asked to use common sense when enforcing attendance policies for employees who may contract the flu. Employees should follow normal reporting procedures to notify supervisors or department heads if they become ill and must miss work as a result of flu-like symptoms.

Flu Prevention Tips

• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes directly
• Use tissues and dispose of them promptly
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Preferably, cough or sneeze ‘into your sleeve or elbow.’

If you have questions regarding leave or staffing, please contact Human Resources at (901) 678-4766 or email hr@memphis.edu.

Additional websites of interest include the following:

http://saweb.memphis.edu/health

http://www.flu.gov/index.html

David Zettergren
Interim Vice President for Business and Finance