FACT SHEETS

WHAT SHOULD COMPANIES BE DOING TO PROTECT AGAINST SWINE FLU

WHAT IS SWINE FLU?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease which infects pigs caused by the H1N1 strain of influenza type A. Outbreaks amongst pigs are fairly regular however most outbreaks are rarely fatal. Recently, as reported by the World health Organisation a recent outbreak in Mexico has been transmitted to humans causing the death of more than 80 people with thousands more being ill with flu like symptoms. Further cases have also been reported in the United States, Britain, and New Zealand.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms of swine flu in humans are similar to the normal symptoms of seasonal flu conditions, sore throat, body aches, chills, cough, sore throat and fatigue. The World Health organisation has warned that, there is a potential risk of a global pandemic and are stressing that the situation is serious.

WHAT IS THE CURE?

Unfortunately there is currently no vaccine against this virus; however, it appears that the drugs Tamiflu and Relenza appear to be effective against the swine influenza H1N1 strain. The World Health Organisation recommends the following precautions be taken by evey individual to help prevent contracting the disease.

avoid touching your mouth and nose;
clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);
avoid close contact with people who might be ill;
reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;
improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;
practise good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

WHAT ABOUT USING A MASK? WHAT DOES WHO RECOMMEND?

If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards. If you are sick and must travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose. Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection

AS AN EMPLOYER WHAT CAN I DO TO PROTECT EMPLOYEES?

The first things a responsible employer should do is to get prepared by doing the following:-

Put systems in place to enable the maximum amount of employees to work from home if required
Minimise contact with others by postponing any conferences, meetings etc. If meetings are essential then consider using teleconferencing or video links.
Operate on a skeleton staff
Ensure staff are multiskilled to cover unfamiliar tasks in an emergency
Keep informed on latest advice and guidance from Department of Health and Health and Safety Executive.

IF A PANDEMIC BREAKS OUT WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Make sure employees are well informed to avoid any misunderstandings
Ensure employees showing symptoms seek medical advice as early as possible
Advise all employees who have symptoms of flu remain at home too avoid spread to others
Cancel or postpone all face to face meetings, uneccessary travel and company social events
Follow all advice issued by the Department of Health and Health and Safety Executive.