CDC: Get Your Workplace Ready - During a Flu Pandemic: Take Action

Put your emergency operations and communication plans into action

• Stay informed about the local flu situation.

• Small Workplaces: Work closely with your local public health department to learn how flu is affecting your community and what steps you need to take to protect your workers. You also can sign-up to receive alerts and updates directly from CDC during a pandemic. To become a subscriber, visit http:// www.cdc.gov/Other/emailupdates/

• Implement NPI actions to protect your workers and others.

• Track worker absenteeism related to flu symptoms.

• Implement your risk-assessment and risk management plan.

Communicate frequently with those in your communication chain

• Update key community partners and stakeholders regularly

• Provide flu-prevention supplies and distribute health messages and materials to workers.

• Address the concerns of workers who are at high risk for flu complications.

• Provide information that explains why and when on-site operations and services may be reduced temporarily.

Take administrative action (as needed) to maintain operations

• Implement flexible attendance and sick-leave policies (if possible).

• Increase space to at least 3 feet and limit face-toface contact between workers in the workplace.

• Postpone or cancel large meetings or events.

• Separate those who become sick at your workplace from those who are well.

Communicate only accurate, up-to-date information.

• Rumors and misinformation may contribute to confusion and fear. Address misinformation among workers by staying informed about the flu situation in your local community.