H1N1 Influenza Virus - Employer Preparedness

The H1N1 influenza virus (“swine flu”) has been a concern for employers and will continue to be on the minds of employees as we enter the flu season. Questions may arise on what the employer is doing to keep employees safe from the potential of a widespread flu this fall. 

While serious cases leading to death are unlikely for healthy adults, employers do play a key role in our communities to help keep our population healthy. Employees need to be reminded about employer sick leave policies and to practice personal hygiene for prevention of illness. Additionally, employees may seek guidance around navigating carrier’s flu shot services.

Flu shots for the H1N1 virus are expected to be available to the public mid-October. Two doses, three to four weeks apart, are expected to complete the vaccination process. The seasonal flu vaccine will be separate from the H1N1 vaccine; however, they can be administered at the same time.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests vaccinations for the following groups:

While no shortage of vaccine is expected, first priority will be given to groups 1-3 (above), children up to age 4, and youth age 5-18 with chronic medical conditions. Once the demand for all targeted groups (1-5 above) is met, the vaccine will be recommended for adults over age 65. Studies currently indicate that adults over age 65 are less at risk for infection than youth.

The federal government will provide healthcare providers with the H1N1 vaccines and basic supplies (i.e. needles, syringes, sharps containers and alcohol swabs) free of charge while all major carriers have announced they will reimburse providers for the administration of the vaccine as they do for seasonal flu shots under preventative or immunization services.

Additionally, carriers are making common flu treatments Tamiflu® and Relenza® available for their members if prescribed by their treating physician.

Refer to the carrier websites below for more specific information on carrier responses to the H1N1 flu and treatment coverage:

• Overview of Aetna’s Preparedness for Pandemic
• Anthem Blue Cross of California: How to protect yourself
• Blue Shield of California: Swine Flu Statement
• CIGNA Prepares for Potential Spread of H1N1 Virus
• Health Net Vaccine Announcement
• Kaiser's Response to H1N1 Outbreak
• United Healthcare's Swine Flu FAQs

Action Items For Employers: Prepare procedures dealing with pandemic flu in the workplace. Review and re-communicate company sick leave policy. Remind employees to practice personal hygiene. Additional considerations: make hand sanitizer available in all common areas, practice social distancing (i.e. telecommuting, conference calls vs. in-person meetings, etc.), and/or create educational posters to answer frequently asked questions about the H1N1 flu.

Additional Employer Resources:

• HHS Interagency Public Affairs Group on Influenza Preparedness and Response: Business Planning
• CDC’s H1N1 Flu Resources for Businesses and Employers
• OSHA: Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for an Influenza Pandemic
• WELCOA: Pandemic Flu Checklist