Our Point of View

May 1, 2009

Kaiser Permanente Statement on Swine Flu (H1N1) Outbreak

Kaiser Permanente physicians and infectious disease experts are continuing to work closely with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local public health agencies to monitor developments and share information on the H1N1 influenza (swine flu) outbreak. Our coordinated teams are taking appropriate actions based on CDC guidelines to respond to the rapidly changing influenza situation and to maintain the health of our members, patients, communities, and employees.

Following public health protocols, we are encouraging those who have mild symptoms to remain at home and limit contact with others to prevent the spread of influenza in the community, and we are scheduling appointments for patients who have significant symptoms. When necessary, our call centers are able to alert medical centers when a patient is expected that may require additional safety and treatment precautions. So far, the number of such patients has been extremely small.

Because this is a rapidly evolving situation, however, the number of people with H1N1 influenza (swine flu) may increase. As appropriate, we will adjust our procedures and protocols based on updates from the CDC and local health departments, as well as our specific experiences in our Kaiser Permanente call centers and medical centers.

While the cases in the United States to date generally appear to be relatively mild in nature, it is important to remember the situation may change. With this in mind, the CDC recommends the following precautionary measures to avoid contracting or spreading the influenza virus:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and avoid sneezing into your hand. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. This FAQ on kaiserpermanente.org has more detailed information on the steps you can take to educate yourself and maintain your health.