Flu Advisory

New Update on the H1N1 FLU

September 1, 2009

Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet for the Water Sector

EPA has published a “Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet for the Water Sector.” Pandemic flu could affect the capability of water system operators to operate and maintain their systems adequately due to increased absenteeism at their systems and at other interdependent sectors that provide essential materials and supplies. The flu fact sheet provides information to assist the water sector in integrating pandemic planning into existing business continuity and emergency response plans and reducing the risk to public health that would be caused by disruption in operation of water systems. In addition to background information on pandemic flu, its potential impacts, and possible interventions, the fact sheet provides references to tools and guidance materials offered by EPA and other organizations. The fact sheet is available at: http://cfpub.epa.gov/safewater/watersecurity/pandemicflu.cfm

August 24, 2009

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has just released two documents that should prove useful to water and wastewater utilities as questions and concerns escalate regarding a possible pandemic event.

The first is “Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to the 2009-2010 Influenza Season.” According to the press release, “CDC is releasing new guidance that recommends actions that non-healthcare employers should take now to decrease the spread of seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1 flu in the workplace and to help maintain business continuity during the 2009–2010 flu season. The guidance includes additional strategies to use if flu conditions become more severe and some new recommendations regarding when a worker who is ill with influenza may return to work."

The second is "Preparing for the Flu: A Communication Toolkit for Businesses and Employers." This document is designed to provide information and communication resources to help businesses and employers implement recommendations from the above referenced CDC Guidance for Businesses and Employers.

For more information go to