Health & Safety

Pandemic Influenza

Pandemic influenza occurs when a new strain of influenza virus appears, which causes serious illness in humans and is easily spread from person to person worldwide. In response to the increasing number of confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) in the United States, HHS determined that a public health emergency exists. As a result, the government mobilized and activated its stockpile of antiviral drugs for quick delivery to the states in the event they're needed. Below are some resources on pandemic influenza and H1N1 Influenza A.

Online Seminar: What You Need to Know About H1N1 Flu

Forget the hype about H1N1, attend this online seminar and let an AFSCME health and safety specialist give you the latest information for you and your family. Find out:

  • the difference between seasonal flu and H1N1
  • H1N1 symptoms and how it spreads
  • who is most at risk and how to protect yourself from being exposed
  • who should get vaccinated and possible side effects
     

The online seminars will be offered at multiple times in the coming weeks. Learn more and register now.

Influenza A (H1N1) Resources

Health Care Workers In Peril

In April 2009, AFSCME, the AFL-CIO and other unions released a report on a survey that assessed the preparedness of facilities to respond to a pandemic of influenza.  The results indicate that although health care facilities have made some progress in preparing for an influenza pandemic, much more needs to be done.

Fact Sheet

Other Web Resources

Print Version