Prior to WHO declaring a full-blown pandemic Dave Killham, executive director, Workers Health & Safety Centre (WHSC) observed, "Since the SARS crisis of 2003 the world has held its breath, braced for a global influenza pandemic experts have warned is inevitable and imminent. But in the aftermath of SARS we also learned some important lessons, not the least of which is ensuring workplaces have a pandemic plan in place. This current crisis reminds us flu types will vary, but the basic elements of an effective plan to minimize potential transmission at work or in the community need not."

The move to declare H1N1 a pandemic stems from the WHO's concern the virus has now spread to at least 74 countries and the number of cases continues to climb. As reported by WHO on June 15, 2009, almost 36,000 cases and 163 related deaths have been confirmed. On this same day, the Public Health Agency of Canada reported more than 4000 confirmed Canadian cases and seven deaths.

According to Dr. Margaret Chan, director-general of the WHO, "Each and every one of these deaths is tragic, and we have to brace ourselves to see more." At the WHO June 11, 2009 news conference though she also spoke to the fact, "Globally, we have good reason to believe that this pandemic, at least in its early days, will be of moderate severity. The overwhelming majority of patients experience mild symptoms and make a rapid and full recovery, often in the absence of any form of medical treatment."

Keiji Fukuda, acting WHO assistant director-general added, "We expect this period of the pandemic to go for several months. After one or two years we will see immunity build up and then will become more like a regular influenza virus and then the heightened alert will lessen. The really important point is, when you are talking about pandemic influenza you are talking about a marathon, not a sprint."

But like any marathon runner knows you need to prepare. If your workplace does not already have a pandemic plan in place, you should consider adding pandemic influenza planning and prevention to the agenda of the next meeting of the joint health and safety committee or representatives. Better still, call for a special meeting to address this critical issue. Involvement of joint health and safety committee members or worker representatives is an essential element in pandemic planning, as is general workforce training.

Want to view the WHSC Pandemic Plan Check List outlining some items to consider when developing or reviewing a pandemic influenza plan for your workplace?

Want to access current information on the swine flu from Toronto Public Health including specifics related to prevention including frequent and thorough hand washing?
(See link information for health care providers.)

Want to know more about the root causes of swine flu and potential reasons why Mexicans are suffering more severe symptoms?

Want to know more about swine flu (H1N1)?
-  World Health Organization
-  Public Health Agency of Canada

Want to know more about WHSC Pandemic Planning training?