Dear Forum Colleague:

The events over the past two weeks involving the spread of H1N1 (Swine) Flu are challenging us to assess risks, follow our health, safety and security protocols, and to make decisions regarding our education abroad programs and students who participate in them.

A number of colleagues have telephone or e-mailed the Forum to share information, ask about resources, and discuss best practices. The best resources the Forum can bring to bear on this situation to help guide decision-making are found in the Forum’s Standards and the examples of best practices in the Standards Toolbox. 

I and the Forum staff are happy to speak with you should you wish.  It is sometimes helpful to talk through individual situations.  As a Forum member institution, you may access the Toolbox directly by logging in on the Forum web site.  The information contained under the Health, Safety and Security is the most relevant for the current situation.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Forum if you have any questions about or would like to share best practices.

Sincerely,

Brian Whalen

President and CEO

Useful Links

Centers for Disease Control:                          http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

World Health Organization:                             http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html

U.S. Department of State:                               http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_4488.html