Swine flu in Toronto, Ontario- Update
As of Tuesday April 28, 2009 there were a total of 13 confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Canada. This number has increased to 19 in a few short hours, with 7 cases being in Ontario. There were also 91 confirmed cases in the United States and 160 deaths world-wide. The CDC (Centre for Disease Control) made an announcement in which they stated that “… a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the U.S.” and that “Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks.”
On Wednesday April 29, 2009 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a level 5, the second highest in their scale warning that a pandemic may be imminent. Though they have increased their efforts to find a vaccine for this virus, it may take up to 6 months to have one readily available.
Jan-Pro has systems in place to help prevent the spread of this virus, and help to limit the amount of infections it causes. We continue to use Hospital grade germicidal detergents and disinfectants, as well as our colour-coded 4 process MicroFibre cleaning system to aid with prevention. We focus on the disinfecting of ‘high touch’ areas like door knobs, light switches, keyboards, and telephones.
If you are a current customer and require an additional disinfection of your facility, or you are simply looking for a commercial cleaning company that you can trust, please feel free to contact your local Jan-Pro office. Our staff will gladly update you on what information we have regarding Swine Flu, answer all your questions, and schedule any cleanings or disinfecting programs you may need.
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. That is where the Jan-Pro difference comes in to play. Our powerful disinfectants will properly clean all the high touch items in your office. Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick!
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
Take everyday actions to stay healthy:
· Stay informed!
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
· Get proper sleep, be physically active, and manage your stress.
· Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
· Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
· Develop a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and other essential supplies.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water. or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. we recommend that when you wash your hands — with soap and warm water — that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
The above listed information comes directly from the CDC and is for information only. (www.cdc.gov/swineflu)
Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems of Central Ontario is located just outside Toronto, in the city of Scarborough. We are dedicated to the health and safety of you, your employees, and your family. If you are concerned about the spread of swine flu in the GTA, please contact us and schedule a cleaning of your facility.
