Swine flu advisory

[rickaren]

Swine flu advisory

Posted Tuesday, Apr 28, 2009, 12:06 pm in Employee News

In response to the latest developments surrounding the swine flu outbreak in Mexico and the United States, the following information is being provided to provide details on the swine flu, its origin, symptoms and preventive measures.

Although Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention has determined that this swine influenza virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human, it is not yet known how easily the virus spreads between people.

It is most likely spreading from person to person through respiratory droplets generated when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. Most of the cases in the United States to date have been mild. The CDC is tracking confirmed cases in the United States and is working with local, state and international health agencies to investigate this situation.

The symptoms of swine flu in humans are similar to the symptoms of the regular flu, which include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. Although there is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu, preliminary information indicates that the virus responds to the antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza.

These every day steps can be used as precautions:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use your upper sleeve, not your hands to cover your mouth. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people

The company is closely monitoring this medical situation and will provide updates should further action become necessary. If you have recently returned from Mexico and are experiencing signs of the flu, do not return to work until you receive medical attention. Tell your medical caregiver that you recently have been to Mexico.

The Department of State supports the Centers for Disease Control travel health warning that nonessential travel to Mexico should be avoided due to the outbreak of the Swine Flu. This travel advisory is in effect until July 27, 2009.

For those with Internet access, the following Web sites provide additional information concerning the current swine flu outbreak:

World Health Organization (WHO)
Swine Influenza Info/Links (main Web page)
Swine flu illness in the U.S. and Mexico—Update 2 (dated April 26, 2009)
Swine Influenza—FAQ (April 26, 2009)

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Swine Influenza (Flu) Info



Chrysler Security and Travel Services, Chrysler Medical Operations