H1N1 Informational Page
The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Health, is serving as a business community liaison in response to the H1N1 Flu pandemic.
This page has been created to help member businesses anticipate, plan for, and respond to the challenges ahead.
Please check back regularly for updates.
What is H1N1?
H1N1, also called “swine” flu, is a pandemic flu virus that emerged in April 2009. Pandemic flu occurs when a new flu virus develops. Since most people do not have any immunity to new viruses, these viruses can spread quickly and infect many people at the same time. Unlike seasonal flu, so far, H1N1 flu appears to infect younger people at a higher rate than older people, who may have some existing immunity from previous infections and vaccinations.
Health Department Briefings
Key messages:
- H1N1 is like seasonal influenza but impacts kids/young adults
Wash hands/ Cover your cough/sneeze with arm
- Get your seasonal flu shot and H1N1 vaccine
- Stay at home until fever free x 24 hours if your ill
- Call your physician if normally would do so
- Business encourage employees to stay at home if ill
- Be flexible and practical
What to expect?
The current pandemic will affect 30% population in aggregate over a six month period with a less than 0.1% mortality rate
If Influenza makes you sick:
People will be sick at home for a week
High risk groups are at risk to be hospitalized or die but vast majority will recover without problems
Vaccines available for:
Seasonal influenza (now)
H1N1 (in Oct/Nov/Dec)
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