IB responds to influenza A (H1N1) virus

Diploma Programme examinations

The recent outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus has resulted in the closure of a number of IB World Schools, mainly in Mexico, by order of local or national government.

Some IB World Schools with Diploma Programme candidates for the May 2009 session are affected, and have been asked to contact the IB coordinator help desk to work out a solution.

Parents and candidates concerned about the examination session are asked to contact the Diploma Programme coordinator at their school for details.

IB World Schools are instructed to hold IB examinations whenever it is legal and safe to do so. The IB has an emergency helpline during the period of the examinations for coordinators to discuss and evaluate each school’s situation individually.

Events and workshops

Current IB events, workshops and site visits being held around the world are running as scheduled. However, if you have any concerns about any proposed travel plans, please contact the IB regional office organizing the event.

The IB advises travellers to apply discretionary caution before travelling. We encourage them to be familiar with the advice of the World Health Organization (WHO).

WHO does not recommend restricting international travel. As usual it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.

Regarding the risk of being infected by an influenza virus, travellers are advised, whenever possible, to avoid crowded enclosed spaces and close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Hand-washing after direct contact with ill persons or their environment may reduce the risk of illness. Ill persons should be encouraged to practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, wash hands).