In September, Export Development Canada tested its pandemic preparedness plan. Part of that exercise was to ensure that employees had the technology to work remotely. (CBC)

Public- and private-sector employers in Ottawa are developing creative ways to track and maintain productivity, while grappling with a rise in flu-related absenteeism.

The university of Ottawa has created an online form for staff and students to report any H1N1 symptoms.

Michael Histed, director of risk management at the University of Ottawa, said more than 250 staff and students have complained of flu symptoms using the form in the last month, with the number of people calling in sick tripling in the last week.

"It'll be interesting to see whether that trend continues to increase, or if we're seeing a stabilization," he said

However, Histed added, the level of absenteeism the university is seeing isn't that unusual for this time of year.

"We are into flu season, even normal flu season," he said. "H1N1 has more or less replaced the seasonal flu at the moment."

The university is relying on the honour system and doesn't require people to submit a doctor's note along with the H1N1 form.

Flu protocol practised

At Export Development Canada, where a detailed flu protocol is being practised, the Crown corporation says productivity hasn't dropped.

In September, EDC staged a swine flu exercise to test its pandemic preparedness plan. Part of that exercise included ensuring that employees had the technology to work remotely.

Phil Taylor, an EDC spokesman, said about 50 EDC employees were suspected of being exposed to swine flu and worked from home last week.

"We've been very clear: If you have any symptoms whatsoever, stay home, keep in contact with the Blackberry or a mobile work station. We quarantine them for at least 24 hours to make sure no symptoms persist."

Taylor said dozens of other employers have contacted EDC to learn about how they are handling the outbreak.