Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza: Sept. 15 update

Pharmacists should be aware of several recent developments concerning pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza.New guidelines for preventing the transmission of influenza-like illness in the community (Public Health Agency of Canada). The guidelines focus on measures that individuals as well as communities can take to prevent transmission. Measures discussed in the guidelines include self-isolation when ill, performing proper hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched objects and surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, faucet handles, work surfaces, computer keyboards, telephones, handrails), public education and temporary modifcation of some faith-based practices. Measures notrecommended at this time include the wearing of masks by the general population, widespread closure of schools, daycare settings, workplaces or community settings, and travel restrictions. www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/hp-ps-info_health-sante-eng.phpNew guidelines for the prevention and management of influenza-like illness related to mass gatherings (Public Health Agency of Canada).The most important message to convey to the public is to stay at home and not attend mass gatherings if ill with symptoms influenza.www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/phg-ldp-eng.phpPublic service radio announcements (Public Health Agency of Canada). These announcements focus on preventing infection and staying at home while sick. Other tools (posters, print ads) are also available for downloading. www.fightflu.ca/tools-outils-eng.htmlPandemic Vaccine Prioritization Framework. Developed by the Public Health Agency of Canada, this framework will be used to develop a specific pandemic vaccine prioritization plan. The framework outlines the disease and vaccine characteristics, as well as the ethical, legal and logistical issues that will be considered in developing priorities as to who should receive the H1N1 vaccine. www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cpip-pclcpi/vf/index-eng.phpProvincial updates on H1N1 can be accessed from the fightflu.ca website: www.fightflu.ca/province_territory-eng.html

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza: Sept. 15 update

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