You may have seen our recent e-mails about Swine flu, and the advice and recommendations that have been distributed from trusted sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), The Home Office, The BBC and the NHS amongst others.
We are also aware that as a company, we don't want to be seen as exploiting the situation in any way. The fact is our business IS Occupational Health and Safety, and we like to consider ourselves to be a trusted source of information, advice and support to our clients throughout the UK.
Last week, the WHO announced the move from Level 5 to Level 6 on the scale of pandemic alert, in response to the spread of Influenza A (H1N1). Level 6 indicated that the global pandemic of the flu virus is underway, which means that the infection is spreading in communities in two or more regions of the world. It does not mean that the flu infection has become more severe.
Most cases of A H1N1 influenza infection are mild and sufferers have recovered quickly. The World Health Organisation has confirmed nearly 28,000 cases and 141 deaths worldwide. More than 800 cases have been reported in the UK alone.
An A H1N1 influenza pandemic is expected to affect this country especially during the autumn/winter, during the usual influenza season. One virologist predicted that this could affect more that 50% of the population.
In the meantime, people should remember 'Catch It, Bin It, Kill It', which is vital to protect yourself against all kinds of bugs and viruses, not just A H1N1 influenza.
( http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Pandemic-flu/Pages/Prevention.aspx?WT.srch=1 )
This post is just to say that we are here to help. We are here to offer support to you as you implement an effective strategy to you and your employees over the coming months. This may range from hand gels, to tissues, pandemic kits, through to vaccinations and Tamiflu. If there is anything that you feel that we can help with, then please get in touch.
For up to date news on this see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8094655.stm or www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu
