As we know, the occurrence of Swine Flu has drastically decreased through the warmer months of summer. However, most reports indicate that there is still a moderate risk of a return outbreak. Andrew Pekosz, professor of immunology and microbiology at John Hopkins, pointed out in May of 2009 that H1N1 is a new virus, meaning no one has immunity. Also worrisome to public health officials is that many flu pandemics of the past have followed this pattern: an initial, mild wave of cases, followed by a lull, and then by more severe waves of infection months later.

All of the above is pertinent, of course, because the public’s attention is still very much on this issue. On August 10th, the CDC issued a report called “General Business and Workplace Guidance for the Prevention of Novel  Influenza A (H1N1) Flu in Workers.” The report serves a preparatory purpose, outlining symptoms of the disease and encouraging employers to take cautionary measures (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/workplace.htm). Almost all of these measures implicate the cleaning industry indirectly, and some, such as the following taken from the report, directly:

* Provide sufficient facilities for hand washing and alcohol-based (at least 60%) hand sanitizers* (or wipes) in common workplace areas such as lobbies, corridors, and restrooms.

* Provide tissues, disinfectants, and disposable towels for employees to clean their work surfaces, as well as appropriate disposal receptacles for use by employees.

* One study showed that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on the surface. To reduce the chance of spread of the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus, disinfect commonly-touched hard surfaces in the workplace, such as work stations, counter tops, door knobs, and bathroom surfaces by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.

What this means: as usual, cleaning services involved in high-risk buildings like schools will continue with their annual conversation concerning flu prevention and containment. However, additional industries may find it necessary to begin developing measures for the early combat of the disease. Most officials are looking to the fall and the Southern Hemisphere, where flu season begins earlier. An organized approach by cleaning services could form the backbone for flu-season preparation. Please take a few minutes to look through the following resources for information on cleaning services and flu preparation:

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm

http://www.cleanlink.com/sm/article/Swine-Flu-Outbreak-Spotlights-Importance-Of-Cleaning–10896

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