Issues

InfluenzaA (H1N1)

Influenza A - H1N1

The recent worldwide outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu, has caused businesses to prepare for disruptions due to illnesses. PMA offers the following resources for members to help them prepare and cope with the outbreak.

U.S. government and world health officials clearly state that the virus is passed from human to human, not through food, including not through fruits and vegetables. Prevention activities are the same as for other types of flu or the common cold – e.g. frequent hand-washing, avoiding ill persons, ensuring ill persons do not come to work, and cleaning common surfaces.

For the latest information from the U.S. government on outbreak statistics, business and personal preparedness, and border/travel/trade issues, visit:

the pandemic flu site,
the Food and Drug Administration H1N1 Web site (including FAQs on the 2009 H1N1 flu virus and questions on H1N1 flu virus and food),
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, particularly Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to the 2009 – 2010 Influenza Season
the Department of Homeland Security.

You may find the workplace preparedness information particularly helpful.

The World Health Organization also has resources on the flu outbreak.

For consumer influencers or consumers themselves, please use the Partnership for Food Safety Education’s Fight BAC! resources.