Back to School - H1N1 Influenza Update

This is a note I sent to the FedEx network and I wanted to share with the broader FedEx Citizenship blog audience, so you too can be thinking about how best to be prepared.

With school beginning in many parts of the country, drivers need to be more alert, watch for children, prepare for frequent stops by school buses and slow it down for those school zone speed limits.

Remember – Kids First, Safety First.

This new school year requires we prepare for something new this year – the H1N1A or Swine Flu. Schools and students were a serious concern for health officials last spring. As the H1N1A virus never disappeared but has spread rapidly since school let out, health officials are more concerned for the upcoming school year and flu season.

Officials are strongly urging the public to prepare now for the upcoming flu season. By preparing now, you’ll be better able to prevent or manage the spread of any flu in your school age children and, as a result, also prevent and manage the spread to you, your family, friends, team members and the public at large.

Here’s what you can do now to prepare:

• Confirm phone/contact information for your doctor, relatives, friends, work.
• Organize child care should schools close.
• Identify who will care for an ill child or family member.
• Identify who will bring food and supplies if your household is ill.
• Purchase supplies you may need now while they’re still available.
• Obtain a seasonal flu vaccination when it is offered.
• If available or eligible, obtain a H1N1A vaccination.

Supplies you may want to consider purchasing/storing include:

• Hand sanitizer and soap
• Tissues
• Surface disinfectant wipes and or cleaners
• Surgical masks
• Over the counter medicines for aches, pains and reducing fever
• Basic emergency supplies
• A supply of food, drink and water

Finally, don’t forget the experts’ best prevention advice:

• Stay home from school or work if you have flu-like symptoms.
• Learn and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
• Practice regular/frequent hand washing.
• Avoid touching your face, nose and mouth with your hands.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.