Pandemic Flu

The H1N1 virus has continued to spread, causing illness along with the regular seasonal flu viruses. H1N1 virus (swine flu) is thought to spread the same way as regular seasonal influenza viruses - through coughing and sneezing by people who are ill with the virus. The H1N1 virus is reported to feature many of the same flu-like symptoms as seasonal flu, such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Some people have also reported nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

• Map of Influenza Activity in the U.S. (CDC - Centers For Disease Control and Prevention)
• Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report (CDC)

CDC Guidance for Businesses and Employers

CDC has released new guidance that recommends actions that non-healthcare employers should take now to decrease the spread of seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1 flu in the workplace and to help maintain business continuity during the 2009-2010 flu season. Businesses play an important role in helping to preserve employees' health and maintain their safety. Effectively managing the wellness of employees will also help limit the negative impact of the outbreak on the individual, the community, and the nation's economy caused by absenteeism and disruption of daily operations. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce urges businesses to develop contingency plans for continued operation during a pandemic.

Resources

• H1N1 Flu: Information for Specific Groups (CDC)
• HHS Workplace Planning Site (PandemicFlu.gov)
• CDC H1N1 Flu Site
• PandemicFlu.gov (managed by the Department of Health and Human Services)
• WHO Pandemic (H1N1) Site
• High-risk group vaccine recommendations:
  • CDC vaccine recommendations
  • WHO vaccine recommendations
• These experts also recommend following everyday actions to help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses, such as H1N1:
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand cleaners if soap and water are not available.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and dispose of tissues promptly.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you get sick with influenza, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others.

Use of Facemasks or Respirators

The CDC has updated their interim guidance on the use of facemasks or N95 Respirators:

• CDC Interim Recommendations for:
  • Facemask and Respirator Use
  • People with Suspected or Confirmed H1N1 Infections
  • Facemask and Respirator Use for Home, Community, and Occupational Settings
• Interim Guidance for Facemask and Respirators (PandemicFlu.gov)

Note: Due to increased demand for respirators, check availability and order through your Grainger sales representative or local branch.

Contamination and Cleaning

Studies have shown that the influenza virus can survive on surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on the surface.

• To help prevent the spread of the flu virus, keep surfaces clean by wiping them down with a disinfectant according to directions on the product label. Many chemical germicides, such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodine-based antiseptics, and alcohols are effective if used properly
• The flu virus is also destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). (CDC Contamination & Cleaning)