Yesterday Montgomery County Health District updated their website with reports of 8 people seriously ill with four already dead. One person has been confirmed to have H1N1 flu. All exhibited influenza like symptoms, so certain prevention measures can help keep you and your facility safe.
Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer
Using warm water and soap regularly, especially after sneezing, using the bathroom, and before/after eating remove the virus from hands. When a sink isn’t available or practical, an alcohol based hand sanitizer can be very effective at killing any virus on the skin. Though a microbial soap can be helpful the act of washing hands for sufficient time and with sufficient abrasive action can kill the virus.
Hand sanitizers should be put on desks, meeting rooms and classrooms to help catch people between hand washings. Be sure to use one that is alcohol based so it is effective against viruses. Purell or Kutol instant hand sanitizer would both work perfectly.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
Using a disinfectant proven to kill viruses can be of vital importance in shared space. Door knobs, phones, table tops and kitchens all need to be kept clean to prevent the spread of influenza diseases.
Triple S has a disinfecting cleaning spray that would work well for treating hard surfaces. Envirox is also effective against influenza viruses and could be utilized in the red concentration.
Stay home when sick, cover moth when coughing, etc.
The CDC has a full list of preventative steps and other supplemental articles here: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm
Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to check your preparedness for the current flu season.
