The Sciences Division at the Shouf Campus invited Dr. Mounir Kassis, M.D., to deliver a lecture on the influenza virus. The outbreak of the pandemic flu, Influenza A H1N1 (Swine Flu), in early 2009, has made this a topic of interest to millions of people. In Lebanon, the number of suspected and confirmed cases continues to increase, and several schools decided to close temporarily, either partially or completely, because they were able to detect several H1N1 infections among their students.
The lecture took place on Wednesday, November 18, 2009, during the lunch break in the Conference Room. Dr. Mounir Kassis said that the novel H1N1 influenza is a new influenza virus that is spreading from person to person. The first case was detected in April 2009. The WHO has raised the level of alert to 6, meaning that it has become a pandemic problem. Dr. Mounir Kassis explained 1) the virus, its types, subtypes, and high potential level for mutation; 2) hosts and reservoirs; 3) mutation properties; 4) mortality rates; 5) ways of spreading; 6) the time interval during which the virus remains viable on objects; 7) risk from drinking water or swimming pools; 8) signs and symptoms; 9) people at higher risk of serious complications; 10) emergency warning signs in children; 11) what to do if one gets sick; 12) recommended tests: Real-time RT-PCR and Rapid influenza antigen test; 13) algorithm to assist in the interpretation of RIDT results; 14) treatment available for those who are seriously ill; 15) warnings; 16) how to protect oneself; 17) chemoprophylaxis; 18) vaccination; 19) swine flu parties; 20) prevention and control measures in acute-care facilities; 21) and infection control measures. Coordinators, instructors, staff, and students from various Divisions attended this lecture. The latter was of special interest to those majoring in Biology. Dr. Mounir Kassis answered all students’ questions and concerns. He was handed a Certificate of Appreciation from the Shouf Campus Administration. In turn, he showed his appreciation to the invitation.