H1N1 Information
The human swine flu outbreak continues to be monitored throughout the world. The World Health Organization lists the pandemic alert level at Phase 5, which is "a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication and implementation of the planned mitigation measures is short."characterized by confirmed person-to-person spread of a new influenza virus able to cause “community-level” outbreaks.
ACCG’s health program partner, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA), provides coverage of the H1N1 (swine flu) flu vaccine for those health plans that currently offer vaccine coverage.
Georgia county government officials should also continue to monitor this situation and stay updated on the latest information. Now is the time to review your pandemic flu plans and know what steps will need to be implemented in your community if the human swine flu outbreak continues to grow. County governments have been preparing for a pan flu outbreak in conjuction with Public Health over the last few years. If you are not aware of your local planning committee and the plan your committee has prepared, please contact your District Public Health Director. Make yourself aware of the precautions your community has in place in the event of a large outbreak.
ACCG will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available as well as links to useful Web sites for more information.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following steps to help you stay healthy:
-
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
-
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
-
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
You should also try to avoid contact with sick people.
-
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
-
If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Other Resources:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Get the latest information available from the CDC, including daily updates, travel notices and other guidance.
PandemicFlu.gov - This site provides comprehensive government-wide information on pandemic influenza and avian influenza for the general public, health and emergency preparedness professionals, policy makers, government and business leaders, school systems, and local communities.
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health
ACCG also has a short DVD that explains the pandemic flu and how to get your community prepared. To request a copy, email Beth Brown or call (404) 522-5022.
