Update on Actions to Prevent Spread of H1N1 Flu

Below are lists of action steps that the Agency is taking and that staff members should take to protect themselves and others from both seasonal influenza and the H1N1 influenza virus.

Actions Heartland is Taking to Prevent Influenza Infection

• Ordered two gallons of alcohol-based hand sanitizer for each office location, which will be distributed this week. Employees may bring their own small bottles to carry the sanitizer off-site, and labels will be provided for these small bottles. More hand sanitizer will be distributed as necessary.
• Purchased 1,000 facemasks for distribution if needed.
• Subscribed to message services maintained by the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Polk County Health Department. Contact is being initiated with other county health departments in Heartland’s borders.
• Ordered and distributed additional custodial supplies for disinfecting our offices.
• Revised our agency Crisis Action Plan to include Pandemic Flu planning.
• Ordering posters to inform staff about how to prevent infection, which will be distributed to all Heartland offices.
• Will brief supervisors on H1N1 on September 23, 2009.

Actions You Can Take to Keep Yourself and Others Well

• Consider getting a flu vaccination and an H1N1 vaccination. Information about getting your flu shots will be provided by the Benefits Office in a separate Connection article.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent spreading germs. Use your arm/sleeve rather than your hand to cover your mouth.
• Wash your hands for at least 15 seconds using soap and warm water every time before you prepare food and after contact with children, blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing or using the restroom.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you cannot wash your hands with soap and water.
• Stay home if you are ill. If you have a fever, do not return to work until at least 24 hours after the fever has stopped. You may use sick leave for these absences. For extenuating circumstances, please contact your supervisor.
• Remind others to practice hand washing and the other precautions mentioned above.