The State of Ohio has reversed guidelines requiring healthcare workers to use NIOSH-approved N95 respirators to prevent the spread of H1N1. Under heavy pressure from hospitals facing widespread shortages of the N95 respirators, the state health department eased regulations despite contradicting guidance from the Center for Disease Control.
A recent study conducted by Harvard University suggests that the majority of businesses are not prepared for a potential H1n1 outbreak, reports the Associated Press. According to the article, businesses have been forced to focus their attention on the fledgling economy and have not had time to consider preparedness strategies.
To help prepare for the upcoming flu season, check out flu.gov. This government website offers a variety of tools and resources to guide businesses in creating contingency plans in the event of a pandemic flu.
Tuesday, the FDA approved the highly anticipated H1n1 (Swine Flu) vaccine. According to a press release issued by the FDA, national distribution of the vaccine is expected to begin sometime in the month. The vaccine will be offered in addition to the normal seasonal flu vaccine.
It remains unclear how news of the H1n1 vaccine will effect demand for gloves and other personal protection equipment. Until now, demand (and prices) have been increasingly steadily as flu season draws near.
Reports of increased influenza activity have already begun to surface, according to information released by the CDC last Friday. Despite the increase, the CDC says it too soon to tell if this activity means flu season has arrived early. The official start of flu season is typically defined by three consecutive weeks where reports of influenza cases exceed statistical baselines.
I am regularly impressed by the FDA website and the amount of public information one can easily access from it. One great feature to the site is the ability to view warning letters the FDA has sent out to companies that are in violation of FDA regulations. Unauthorized marketing claims about the H1N1 virus is one of the most popular causes for FDA warning letters this year; Since May, the FDA has issued 64 such letters to companies in violation.
As demand for products mounts in preparation for the upcoming flu season, use caution when buying products to fight the spread of the H1N1 virus. If you find a gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE) claiming to prevent H1N1 (or Swine Flu), we strongly encourage contacting the FDA and/or the Center for Disease Control to verify the validity of these claims prior to purchasing the product.
