World Health Organization declares H1N1 a pandemic - Friday June 12, 2009
The World Health Organization has raised the H1N1 pandemic alert level to Level 6, which is characterized by community level outbreaks in more parts of the world. The pandemic declaration indicates geographic spread, not severity, as health officials have noted that the virus effects have been moderate to date.
It’s important to remember that the Public Health Agency of Canada has noted, in almost all circumstances, that the H1N1 flu is similar in severity to a typical seasonal flu. In most cases, suspected H1N1 flu cases do not require hospitalization and patients are being sent home and advised to follow the normal treatment for flu (drink plenty of fluids, rest, and avoid contact with others).
If you develop flu-like symptoms (cough, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and sore throat), please do not come to work, and contact your team leader immediately to advise them of the reason for your absence. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.
The best way for employees to protect themselves from any flu virus is:
- wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
- if you don’t have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer
- cover your mouth and nose with your arm when you cough or sneeze
- avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes
Additionally, employees with shared workstations may wish to disinfect common equipment (keyboards, telephones, etc.) as appropriate.
The Public Health Agency of Canada has posted some guidelines to assist people in treating family members or others who may have the H1N1: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine-porcine/guidance-orientation-05-03-eng.php
Canada Post’s comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has counselling services as well as a Health Information Service (“Nurseline”) which provides professional support and advice to employees and family members. The EAP is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for immediate confidential help. The toll free number is 1 866 565-4903. TTY Service 1 877 338-0275. Or visit online counselling at: https://www.shepellfgiservices.com/ec/index1.asp
Team leaders should post this information in a common area for all employees to see and place in Information Books. Please include a copy of the questions and answers that are posted on Intr@post as well.
For more information about the (H1N1) flu virus visit: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/index-eng.php
