Swine FluThe recent outbreak of the Swine Flu in Mexico and its spread to other parts of the world is concerning. The scale and speed at which the disease has travelled has earned it the status of “pandemic”. We’ve all heard about epidemics, which are outbreaks of contagious diseases. Pandemics are simply epidemics that occur on a global scale.
Our Senior Organiser in the Passenger Vehicle Section, John Picone, has recently been part of a committee set up by the State Government to examine and promote Influenza Pandemic Business Continuity Planning. Governments throughout Australia are taking very seriously the prospect of an influenza pandemic and are actively urging industries such as the transport industry to plan accordingly. The nature of work in passenger transport, such as buses, taxis and airports, makes it particularly susceptible to the spread of infectious diseases. Discussions have been occurring between the Federal Office of the Union and Qantas to ensure that airport workers are fully protected.
The Union has been closely monitoring the outbreak of the Swine Flu. We have been in contact with the office of the Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon. The Union will be guided by recommendations made by medical authorities and Victorian and Federal Health agencies regarding measures to control the possible spread of the Swine Flu in Australia.
Members should seek medical advice if they exhibit flu like symptoms and are concerned about contact with international travellers.
The Union will take appropriate action if it is required.
The Department of Human Services issued the following statement on 3 June 2009:
As at 1600hrs 3 June 2009, Victoria moved to a modified Sustain Phase of its influenza plan.
We are now focusing our treatment on members of the community most vulnerable to influenza, such as the elderly, students at special development schools,
hospital patients and people with a chronic illness.
The decision to move Victoria to a modified Sustain Phase was made on advice from the Australian Health Protection Committee and the Commonwealth’s Chief Medical
Officer. Other states and territories will remain in the Contain Phase at this stage.
Please go to www.health.vic.gov.au for details of the modified Sustain Phase and what it means to you.
The number of confirmed human swine flu cases in Victoria had increased to 521.
Schools will no longer be closed
Students who are ill should be kept at home.
Schools and early childhood providers that are currently closed due to H1N1 Influenza can re-open.
For all information on schools go to www.education.vic.gov.au.
Businesses
All organisations should encourage staff who are ill not to come to work and to seek appropriate medical care if necessary.
Good hygiene remains vital.
For the most up-to-date information :
Please call your local hospital ONLY if you are seriously unwell with flu like symptoms.
Acting Chief Health Officer
Victoria
