Finally, a National Pandemic Flu Plan
The White House issued today a national plan to respond to a flu pandemic. For those interested in the details, here is the link to the Pandemic Influenza Implementation Plan. For those looking for the quick details as they apply to the workplace, here they are:
- It is estimated that up to 40% of the workforce could be out of work at one time - imagine the effect on productivity and the impact on your experience in your health plan.
- In order to prevent transmission in the workplace, the report suggests:
1) Advising those who are infected to stay home or do the normal things that are suggested with regard to avoiding colds - washing hands, covering nose and mouth when sneezing, etc.
2) People around individuals with influenza-like symptoms should maintain separation of at least 3 feet from that individual
3) Develop policies for isolating and excusing employees who become ill at work; allowing unscheduled leave for employees with ill household members; restricting business-related travel where appropriate; and establish return to work gudelines.
While these are fine recommendations, we all know that the burden will fall on the shoulders of human resources who will be asked to play germ police. So, now is the time to be putting your plan into place.