Flu Preparedness
Each year, WOHA plays an important role in the protection of our community against seasonal flu. Solicited by both private and public agencies to provide consultation, case management, and policy, we have also been an integral part of the response to this year's H1N1 pandemic.
The most effective measure of Influenza protection is immunization. Protect yourself, your employees, and the public through vaccination against both the seasonal and H1N1 flu.
H1N1 UPDATE: There are no longer restirctions on H1N1 vaccine eligibility. The vaccination is available to all patients on a walk- in, first-come, first-served basis. It is still recommended that high-risk individuals receive the vaccine as soon as possible. Please visit our clinic at your convenience during regular business hours. Contact us for further information.
ABOUT THE VACCINE: Know your options. There are two types of vaccine currently offered: inactivated (the shot) and live, attenuated (the mist) Do you qualify as a high risk individual? For detailed information about each vaccine, who should get it and when, read the CDC's information sheets (above). Knowledge is the best defense.
H1N1 BY NUMBERS: 1 in 6 Americans has been infected. Two thirds of the population is still not immune - or prepared- for a third wave that could arise as soon as January. Now is the perfect window of opportunity to help buid a herd immunity - take advantage of it! It is still important to get vaccinated.
Helpful Links
For addional information regarding the H1N1 influenza including response, specific treatment, symptoms and recommendations, please visit these valuable resources:
Seasonal Flu Vaccinations
Don't get bitten by the FLU BUG! WOHA can provide Seasonal Flu Vaccinations either on a walk-in basis in our conveniently located clinic or on-site at your facility.
Please contact Patti Munoz for more information at 202-463-6698 or pmunoz@woha.com
Click Here to schedule flu vaccinations online now!
Pandemic Flu Preparedness
In light of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) pandemic in the United States and abroad, it is imperative that employers take necessary measures to protect their employees as well as the general public. The outcome of a pandemic depends on the severity of the responsible viral strain, as well as the extent to which each community and organization prepares for this potential catastrophe. WOHA can provide your company with the expertise and resources necessary to prepare for and mitigate the effects of a pandemic flu.
Aspects of our Pandemic Flu Preparedness Services include:
- Assistance in tailoring a pandemic flu plan specific to your company’s needs.
- Communication of the latest literature on preparedness planning.
- Presentations and distribution of materials geared toward various divisions of your organization.
- Facilitating the acquisition, storage, distribution and administration of antiviral medications to essential employees with potential risk of exposure.
- Coordinating relationships between your company and IT technical specialists that will ensure that employees can work from home.
- Promoting infection control in the workplace, including personal hygiene among employees and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a respirator.
- Board-certified physicians available 24 hours a day to respond to your needs or questions.
Steps you, the employer, can take:
- Vaccinate your employees.
- Stockpile antiviral medications.
- Utilize an emergency notification system to ensure complete communication with all personnel.
- Train and educate employees on safe work practices:
- Stay home when sick.
- Cover cough with arm/sleeve.
- Wash hands and keep sanitizers handy.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Be mindful of personal contact.
- Implement engineering controls such as proper ventillation, access to disinfectants, etc.
- Ensure symptomatic employees are treated prior to returning to work.