The Obama administration declared recently a public health emergency in response to the increase in Swine Flu cases in the United States and in the world. Like seasonal flu, swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by viruses that usually effect pigs. Swine Flu has spread from person-to -person, like influenza, in the past, but was limited and not so widespread.
About the Swine Flu:
The Swine Flu that has caused these actions is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs and in the past was not generally transmittable to people. Occasionally these viruses change and it appears that this strain has and is now transmittable to people.
Where it Originated:
The outbreak that has been in the news appears to have originated in Mexico and at this point in time has affected people who were in Mexico (in some cases students on spring break and on school trips) or who might have been in contact with affected individuals. The symptoms of Swine Flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular flu we are accustomed to dealing with and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that U.S. travelers avoid all non-essential travel to Mexico.
What We Can Do:
Swine Flu can be transmitted in ways similar to the ‘regular’ flu, through coughing, sneezing or by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching the mouth or nose. Because there is no vaccine available now to prevent this flu, it is important that we all practice the everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.
These steps include:
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Then make sure to throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick with influenza, it is recommended that you stay home from work or
school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
It is important to note that as of now there is no epidemic or a reason to panic. The U.S. and other governments are taking actions in order to prevent this from developing into a Pandemic and to raise awareness to everybody about the importance of following these preventive
To learn more about Swine Flu, please view the following Links:
Safe Wise Swine Flu Release
Safe Wise is a preferred vendor of Philadelphia Insurance and they provide Risk Management consulting, training and support services to national organizations.
The CDC Swine Flu Main Page - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) runs up to date information on the escalating problem with the Swine Flu. Interim Guidance Updates are made daily on the CDC website.
The Pandemic Flu Website
The Pandemic Flu website provides comprehensive government wide information on Pandemic flu viruses for the general public. This includes Swine Flu, Avian Flu, General Influenza, etc.
Contact Information:
Mark Konchan, ARM CSP
Vice President – Loss Control
Home Office – Bala Cynwyd, PA
Phone: 800.873.4552 ext. 2967
E-Mail: mkonchan@phlyins.com
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