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Scientists predict that the world is due for an influenza pandemic-a global outbreak from a new strain of influenza - and that it could hit anytime. There's nothing happening right at the moment to make us think it's upon us, but this would be a good time to make sure you're prepared for when it does happen. I trust these articles will be helpful in your preparations.

What exactly is the risk of a pandemic? (Item #1) This checklist from the HHS and CDC can help you make sure you have all bases covered. (Item #2) Here's a calculator to help you determine the potential impact of a pandemic on your company. (Item #3)

Do you know what you have to do now to survive a pandemic? (Item #4) This is good information to provide to all your employees. (Item #5) If personal protective equipment is required, here's how to use it effectively. (Item #6)

As always, we look forward to hearing about your concerns with regards to business continuity. If you have a topic you'd like to see covered, please email me at bmellinger@attainium.net

Best Regards,

Bob Mellinger
President
Attainium Corp

Quote of the Week

"Influenza is called the last of the great uncontrolled plagues, and some epidemiologists believe that
we are imminently due for an influenza epidemic of plague proportions like that of 1918."
- J. E. Williams in Viral Immunity -

Articles

1. Overview: The Risk of a Flu Pandemic
There's broad consensus among infectious disease researchers that other flu pandemics will happen. One particular subtype of flu now widespread in birds is a prime candidate to develop a human strain. Here's why the experts are especially worried.
http://reports.typepad.com/pandemic_plan/2008/07/overview-the-ri.html

2. Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist
In the event of pandemic influenza, businesses will play a key role in protecting employees' health and safety as well as limiting the negative impact to the economy and society. Planning for pandemic influenza is critical. To assist you in your efforts, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed the following checklist for large businesses. It identifies important, specific activities large businesses can do now to prepare, many of which will also help you in other emergencies.
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/businesschecklist.html

3. Pandemic Influenza Risk Management Calculator
The US Chamber of Commerce predicts a pandemic could cost our economy an estimated $160 - $675 billion in lost productivity and direct medical expenses. To estimate the impact of a pandemic on your company, your employees and your profitability, click the button on this page to open the Pandemic Influenza Risk Management Calculator.
http://www.pandemicplan.gsk.com/calculator.html

4. 68% of Businesses Are Not Prepared for a Pandemic: What Your Business Must Do Now to Survive
Whether it is the currently fast spreading avian bird flu, SARS or a totally different viral threat, experts acknowledge we are overdue for the next pandemic. "The virus continues to spread in wild birds across the world. There is no reason to believe that at some point it will stop. ... We need to be prepared," said Michael Leavitt, secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
http://www.pandemicinfosite.com/bird-flu-business.htm

5. Six Things Employees Need to Know
Spread this information to your employees so they will have access to this information... and it may help your workplace keep operating.
http://www.ccohs.ca/pandemic/documents/6things.html

6. Personal Protective Equipment
Here's everything you should know about personal protective equipment... what to wear, when to wear it and how to use it correctly.
http://www.ccohs.ca/pandemic/documents/ppe.html