Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Director Peter Fricker today provided an update on measures introduced to combat the swine flu virus.

‘The welfare of AIS athletes is paramount and we have taken steps to protect the athletes in our care, many who are school-aged and at higher risk,’ Professor Fricker said.

‘There are no cases of swine flu at the AIS however we need to remain vigilant as our closed community — where school-aged athletes are continuously in residence — is vulnerable to the virus. 

‘The AIS swine flu response is based on medical advice led by Associate Professor Kieran Fallon, AIS Head of Sports Medicine, and guided by health authorities.

‘Our aim is to prevent athletes having direct contact with people who have been in Victoria or overseas locations where swine flu has spread.’

The AIS will not be sending athletes to Victoria until further notice.

Coaches or other staff who have direct contact with AIS athletes have also been instructed to cease travel to Victoria.

Athletes, coaches or staff who do visit Victoria cannot have contact with AIS athletes for seven days after their return. This means:

• Being quarantined if living in an AIS residence.
• Not attending training sessions.
• No access to the AIS Dining Hall or engaging in other activities where there are groups of athletes present.

The procedures also apply to people being exposed to swine flu regions overseas.

Visits to the AIS by groups from swine flu areas are also being restricted.

Professor Fricker said AIS Tours were continuing with the exception of school groups from Victoria while camp bookings from swine flu areas are also being reviewed. 

There is no change to the use of other public facilities, such as the AIS pool and gym.

‘We ask anyone who has been in swine flu areas to refrain from direct contact with athletes and seek their cooperation deferring any visits to the AIS until further notice,’ Professor Fricker said.