Bradley County Agencies Prepared for H1N1 Virus

A recent report from the White House suggests that from 30 to 50 percent of the U.S. Population could fall victim to the H1N1 virus this fall. Also commonly known as the Swine Flu, the report says that during the course of a possible pandemic as many as 30,000 to 90,000 American citizens could die.

Since it first emerged in April of this year, the global H1N1 flu epidemic has sickened more than 1 million Americans and killed about 500. It has also spread around the world, infecting tens of thousands and killing nearly 2,000.

Medical researchers offer a glimmer of hope that some of the worst fears about the H1N1 pandemic flu season may not be realized this year. However, that assessment is delivered with a strong word of caution. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said recently that medial facilities and citizens in general should expect “a big influx” of swine flu cases this fall. Local emergency agencies and medical facilities are urged to be prepared with an emergency plan should it be needed.

As County Mayor I am happy to report that Bradley County has been working on such a plan for a long time. The Bradley County Health Department, County Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, Hospitals, schools, as well as other local and state agencies have been meeting regularly for months to put a pandemic flu plan in place should it be needed.

Health Department Director Eloise Waters says doctors and treatment facilities are now ordering the H1N1 flu vaccine but researchers say it will not be available until mid October at the earliest, and possibly November. Should the virus spread rapidly before the vaccine is available, EMA Director Troy Spence is urging every business or industry where a number of people are employed, to focus on a plan to keep the business running in case of high absenteeism. In this time of high unemployment a “continuity of operations” plan will help insure that businesses continue to turn out their product and help avoid a domino effect of higher unemployment.

The CDC says the H1N1 Flu Virus is contagious and is spread from human to human in the same way as seasonal flu. Symptoms are also very similar, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses such as pneumonia, respiratory failure and even deaths have also been reported with swine flu.

There are several practical things we as individuals can do to prevent the spread of the virus. First, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Medical researchers say this is the most important thing you can do to prevent the spread of any disease. You should also avoid or minimize contact with sick people. A minimum distance of three feet is recommended. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Cover your mouth and nose with tissues when you cough and sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow. If you are sick, stay away from others as much as possible.
It is also a good idea to stock up on food supplies and medications. If the virus spreads rapidly, staying indoors and away from others is a wise thing to do.

In the event of a significant outbreak of the H1N1 virus the Bradley County Emergency management Agency will publish daily factsheets on the EMA page of the County’s website at www.bradleyco.net. The goal is to keep you informed on the progression of the virus throughout Tennessee and Bradley County and offer effective methods of treatment.

It is important that you take every precaution available to protect yourself, your family and your community.