| overview Confirmed cases of swine influenza A virus infection (swine flu) also known as H1N1 have been identified in several states in the United States, as well as numerous cases in Mexico and other countries. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Additionally, there have been some reports of diarrhea and vomiting. The symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and in severe cases can result in pneumonia, respiratory failure and possibly death. Although it is not known if and how quickly Swine Flu will spread, the CDC is preparing the country in the event that this becomes a pandemic. The CDC has been updating their recommendations and will continue to do so as necessary. Since April 24, 2009 the CDC has issued numerous specific recommendations for caregivers, laboratory workers, caring for a sick person in your home and community settings where swine flu has been detected. Respiratory Protection Generally for the Public, the CDC recommends when in crowded settings or close contact with others in areas where transmission of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus has been confirmed, the use of facemasks (surgical type mask cleared by the FDA) or respirators (approved by NIOSH) should be considered. In Healthcare settings, CDC recommends when personnel are engaged in aerosol generating activities (e.g., collection of clinical specimens, endotracheal intubation, nebulizer treatment, bronchoscope and resuscitation involving emergency intubation or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation) for suspected or confirmed swine flu cases the caregiver should wear a fit-tested disposable N95 respirator. Additionally, CDC recommends personnel providing direct patient care for suspected or confirmed swine flu cases should wear a fit-tested disposable N95 respirator when entering the patient room. For specific information refer to http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ for the most up to date information on the swine flu. Where NIOSH certified respirators are used, this should be in conjunction with a comprehensive respiratory protection program in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 29 CFR 1910.134 as a minimum. This includes but is not limited to medical evaluation, training and fit testing. WARNING: The information contained in this Tech Brief is dated and was accurate to the best of Moldex's knowledge, on the date above. It is not meant to be comprehensive, nor is it intended to be used in place of the warning/use instructions that accompany Moldex respirators. ©2003-2009 Moldex-Metric, Inc. All Rights Reserved. What You Need to Know About the Swine Flu The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared a public health emergency due to a recent outbreak of Swine Flu in the U.S. and other countries. Due to the numerous questions we have received regarding the Swine Flu, below is some helpful information regarding the virus, and how employers and employees can help reduce the spread of the virus and stay healthy. About the Swine Flu:
The Swine Flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is caused by Type A Influenza and is a respiratory disease that originated in pigs. Humans can become infected with the virus by coming into contact with humans or pigs carrying Swine Flu. It is important to note that you cannot get Swine Flu from eating pork. This is an airborne illness, spread through coughing and sneezing.
Symptoms:
Those infected by Swine Flu may experience common flu symptoms such as fatigue, lack of appetite, cough, runny nose, fever over 100.4, muscle aches, and sometimes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Many illnesses can produce flu-like symptoms, and screening for the flu virus is available with an instant test at many medical offices including most Concentra sites. It's important to note that the Swine Flu virus can only be confirmed by viral cultures, and only at the CDC.
Recommendation:
If employees are not feeling well, and are experiencing fever and flu-like symptoms, they should leave work so as not to infect others, and seek medical attention for worsening symptoms. Those who test positive for the virus should stay home and avoid contact with others. If treated within the first 48 hours, the anti-viral drugs Tamiflu and Relenza can decrease the duration of illness and lessen the symptoms.
Prevention and available resources:
To lower your risk of getting the flu, or any other virus, you should:
-- Avoid people who are ill -- If possible, practice social distancing (6 feet), including limiting access to public places, conducting phone conferences rather than face-to-face meetings, consider eating lunch at your desk rather than in large breakroom settings -- Keep work stations clean and sanitized -- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizers -- Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing, then immediately dispose of the tissue in a trash receptacle -- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth | | | |
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