On June 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General raised the A(H1N1) influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6.
Phase 6 indicates that a global pandemic is under way and is characterised by human-to-human spread of the virus in at least two countries in one WHO region and sustained community level breakouts in at least one country in another WHO region.
The Company is continuing to monitor developments and the advice from the WHO.
Employees are requested to seek up to date travel advice from their local travel provider before commencing travel to other destinations.
If an employee shows flu-like symptoms, they should contact a medical practitioner by phone as soon as possible.
The medical community has published hygiene recommendations to keep you and your families healthy and to avoid the spread of respiratory illnesses such as the flu:
- Wash your hands often, especially after you cough or sneeze, with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers. Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw tissues away immediately.
- If you get the flu, stay home from work, school, and social gatherings. In this way you will help prevent others from catching your illness. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Any employee who has concerns regarding influenza should seek medical advice.
Knowing the facts is the best preparation. The following web-sites can provide additional up to date information:
