A part-time mature female student at the Broadstairs campus of Canterbury Christ Church University has contracted swine flu, it has been confirmed.

The student, who does not live in university accommodation, is being treated for her symptoms in line with Health Protection Agency (HPA) guidelines.

A statement by the university said: "The university is working with the HPA to provide advice for staff and students who may have been in contact with the student.

"To date, the vast majority of cases of swine flu in the UK are relatively mild and those involved make a full recovery.

"Like many other organisations across the UK, the university will be monitoring the situation closely and has not determined a need for any particular precautions to be in place.

"The university recommend staff and students to follow the general advice being circulated by national health agencies."

If you believe you have flu-like symptoms, and particularly if you have recently returned from a country where there has been an outbreak of swine flu:

• stay at home and avoid contact with others;
• call your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Pandemic-flu/Pages/QA.aspx for advice;
• do not attend a GP surgery as if you are infected it may cause the spread of the disease;
• take normal hygiene precautions such as: covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing;
• using a tissue when possible and disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully;
• washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people.

Staff and students who are thinking of travelling abroad should consult the www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu for the latest advice. The FCO is currently advising against travel to Mexico.

For further information and advice about swine flu, including the Government leaflet and TV campaign, visit www.canterbury.ac.uk/support/student-support-services/students/index.asp.