Swine Flu’s Return — Tip of the Week
Find more articles and other resources for employers to deal with swine flu
The Washington Post reports that it’s back. In fact, it never left. It’s been in other places, but the Post, relying on health officials in the U.S. and throughout the world, says it’s coming back with a vengeance. There’s no question that the H1N1 flu, commonly called swine flu, is a wold-wide pandemic. The only question is how destructive it will be.
After the original swine flu scare in the U.S. was labeled as overblown by some, there is fear that it won’t be taken seriously enough now. The government, employers, schools, and individuals began getting ready for the first wave only to hear their preparations called unnecessary. In fact, they were necessary the first time. They’re more necessary now.
In the U.S. alone, it’s predicted that during the fall and winter, hundreds of thousands of people will be hospitalized. Tens of thousands will die. Throughout the world, the numbers will be even more staggering.
This week’s tip? If you had a swine flu pandemic emergency plan earlier, pull it back out and put it in place. If you don’t have one, seriously consider preparing one. Obtain current information from state and local health authorities about the swine flu’s return. Meet with your counterparts in other organizations to see what they’re doing. Get on the website of the Centers for Disease Control, and see what the CDC is recommending now. Stay current with what the swine flu is doing in the rest of the world. Be vigilant in monitoring any outbreaks of illness among your employees. Bring in a health expert to talk to your employees about getting the swine flu back on their radar, not as a scare tactic, but as the work of a responsible employer.
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About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
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While we are more likely to pick up swine flu from another person than from a pig, we still have to remember that the risk is still there. Everyone needs to be careful – particularly people who work with pigs.