Various associations and government institutions have released resources to help facility managers tackle the potential for a swine flu (H1N1) pandemic. This information includes pandemic research as it relates to varying facility types and expands on cleaning methods that can help prevent the spread of influenza.

For instance, the U.S. Department of Education released a Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) fact sheet that offers guidance on what education administrators need to do now to properly prepare for a swine flu outbreak in and around campus communities. The fact sheet contains Web links to state pandemic influenza plans and other useful resources.

The IFMA Foundation is offering the Pandemic Preparedness Manual, a complimentary resource that can assist in planning for, controlling and responding to the threat of influenza.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a question and answer page on its web site to address common questions relating to swine flu transmission; steps individuals should take to prevent contact; a list of swine flu symptoms; and additional information that many universities and college campuses are in turn sharing with their students, staff and faculty.

BOMA International has updated its Pandemic Flu Resources page with the latest information to help communities, companies and individuals plan for a possible outbreak of Swine Flu, including specific resources to help property professionals plan for and protect their tenants and buildings in the event of an outbreak.

The Soap and Detergent Association has also outlined information that cleaners can use to encourage handwashing as a method to preventing the spread of infection. Click here and here.

The U.S. Department of Labor and Occupational Safety and Health Administration also released information on preparing for pandemic health issues and methods to keeping employees and building occupants safe.

Other important sites for information on pandemic preparedness include:
World Health Organization
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Government's Pandemic Flu Web Site for Schools
U.S. National Institute of Health and National Library of Medicine




POSTED ON: 4/1/2009