Keep yourself and staff safe from Swine Flu.
May 11, 2009
Swine Flu, or the H1N1 Virus, has been a top concern for many travelers in recent weeks; however, there is currently no cause for alarm. It is important to differentiate facts about H1N1 from incorrect information that has circulated in the media and on the internet.
What is the H1N1 Virus?
The H1N1 Virus has similar symptoms to the regular seasonal flu, including: fever, couch, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Other symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting have been reported as well.
The virus, which is rare in humans, causes a respiratory infection. The incubation period for the virus is 1-7 days. It is spread much in the same way that the regular seasonal flu is spread – mainly through person to person contact such as coughing and sneezing.
It cannot be spread through eating pork or pork products. Additionally, H1N1 is not thought to be spread through contact with water supplies including drinking water sources as well as contact with swimming pools, rivers or lakes.
How serious is the threat of H1N1?
It is important to note that the number of cases of H1N1 is still limited. By comparison, approximately 20,000 individuals are hospitalized each year from complications from the regular seasonal flu each year. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, 36,000 people die each year from the flu or flu-related complications such as pneumonia.
Is it safe to travel?
It is important to note that the CDC has not issued a travel warning to any areas in the U.S.. The only area that currently has any restrictions is Mexico.
How can I protect myself, my employees and my customers from H1N1?
While there is currently no vaccine to protect against H1N1, there are a number of things you can do to prevent the spread of germs that cause H1N1 and other illnesses.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.
- Avoid contact with people who are, or appear to be, sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Afterwards, throw the tissue away and wash your hands.
- Stay home and avoid contact with others, except to seek medical care, if you are feeling sick. Encourage employees to do the same.
- Educate your staff on H1N1 and the spread of germs, including proper hand-washing techniques.
- Ensure common use areas at your workplace, such as restrooms and shared office equipment are regularly sanitized.
Other links & resources from the Center for Disease Control:
H1N1 Flu and You, Questions & Answers
