The "swine flu" pandemic may have faded from the headlines, but outpatient facilities should plan for a "likely recurrence of novel H1N1 flu in the fall," says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Some steps the CDC recommends:
Develop a business continuity plan. Make alternative plans to ensure you can remain operational in the face of potential absenteeism and supply chain disruptions.
Educate employees. Keep staff well-informed about any new policies and procedures you’ll be putting in place, and advise them to have emergency plans in place for themselves and their families.
Cross-train. Make sure your facility is prepared to operate with even a 20% to 40% reduction in staff.
Sick? Stay home. Staff should monitor their own health and refrain from working or caring for patients if they exhibit signs of flu-like symptoms.
Provide free staff immunizations. Seasonal flu shots may not protect against novel H1N1, but all healthcare workers are advised to receive annual influenza immunization.
Prepare to care for patients with H1N1. Consult the CDC’s guidance on how to identify and care for patients with swine flu and how to protect personnel who come into close contact with these patients.
Plug into community resources. Coordinate with hospitals and public health services in your area and identify sources of reliable, current information on community outbreaks and response activities. The CDC’s H1N1 Web site is a good place to start.
—Irene Tsikitas
