October 27, 2009

As flu season ramps up, so does the number of cases of H1N1 (swine flu). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the swine flu, which is now widespread in 46 of 50 states, is at a level comparable to the peak of the normal flu season, with more waves of infection expected.

This past Saturday, the government declared the 2009 H1N1 swine flu a national emergency. The reason for the declaration was to reinforce the seriousness of this illness and to give hospitals more leeway in responding to patients off-site, if necessary.

As a reminder, each of us can help prevent the spread of H1N1 influenza by following simple and consistent preventive measures, which include: avoid contact with people who appear sick and who have a fever and cough; wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly; and, if you are having flu-like symptoms, stay home from work to avoid spreading your illness to others.

• http://www.who.int/en/ (World Health Organization)
• http://cdc.gov/ (Centers for Disease Control)
• http://www.hhs.gov/ (US Dept. of Health and Human Services)
• http://www.cidrap.umn.edu/ (Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy)

If you have any specific concerns or questions, please contact your local HR manager.

The health and well-being of our employees and their families is our number one priority.

Archived Issues
April 27, 2009, April 29, 2009, May 18, 2009, June 12, 2009, August 26, 2009, September 24, 2009