Swine 'Flu Latest and Updated Pandemic Planning Advice
On 11th June 2009, the World Health Organisation (WHO) raised the level of the swine flu alert from Phase 5 to Phase 6, declaring that "a global influenza pandemic is under way". The decision to declare an influenza pandemic was based on the global spread of the virus rather than how severe it was. WHO considers the overall severity of the swine 'flu pandemic to be moderate, meaning that most people recover without the need to go to hospital or receive medical care.
In the UK, the Cabinet Office published revised swine 'flu-specific planning assumptions on 22nd October 2009. These remain in place. Whilst they indicate a more positive picture, businesses are still being urged to make preparations to manage higher than usual levels of staff absenteeism expected during this year's influenza season in order to minimise the impact on their normal operations.
Although the number of swine flu cases is falling and people who think they may have swine flu symptoms are advised to contact their GP again rather than the National Pandemic Flu Service, the Chief Medical Officer for England, Sir Liam Donaldson still urges those who are eligible to have the swine flu vaccination to prevent further deaths and hospitalisations. The message seems to be that whilst the threat of mass absenteeism is reducing, there is no room for complacency.
Steelhenge has supported many organisations - from government departments and local authorities to major corporations and SMEs - in the development of their 'flu pandemic policies, the development of their pandemic plans and in the training of their staff.
See how our flu pandemic planning services can help you withstand the impact of swine 'flu.
Useful Pandemic Links:
www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/ukresilience/pandemicflu/risk/current_risk_assessment.aspx: For further information on 'flu specific planning assumptions
www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/: For further information on the World Health Organisation (WHO) Alert Levels
www.direct.gov.uk/en/index.htm: For the latest UK Government advice on swine 'flu
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