Pandemic/Disaster

Infection Control and Communication Disease: In the absence of Chairman Adam Tipert, Norma Boudreau read his report. As you and I are aware, the most predominant concerned posed to us today is the rising concern and the ongoing spread of the H1N1 Swine Influenza virus. As of today, the World Health Organization has reported, worldwide, 6497 cases confirmed in 33 countries, the majority of these cases have been in Mexico, United States and Canada. The U.S. has 3352 confirmed cases resulting in 45 deaths; Canada, 389 with only one death linked to the illness. The WHO evaluates pandemic situations by phases, and this is thus explained. Phases 1-3 “predominately animal infection; few humans”; Phase 4 being “sustained human to human transmission”, Phase 5-6 “Pandemic, widespread infection”; Phase 7, “post peak, with some transmissions; Phase 8, post pandemic. To date, WHO has elevated the spread of the H1N1 to Phase 4. We are, on a scale, but one step to a phase of a pandemic. We are well aware, that the Nova Scotia’s ground zero is Windsor, where a number of students of Kings Edge Hill private school have traveled in and about the country of Mexico, the primary location of this virus. Although the Nova Scotia official’s state there is no cause for great public concern, this virus is spreading and with increasing numbers, has caused exactly this. It has been many years since this country has seen a pandemic spread across its borders as the H1N1 virus makes its way from coast to coast – it must be a concern of all people, especially to our  embalmers and funeral directors who are front line workers when dealing with the results of those who succumb to the sickness. I cannot stress the importance of protective wear while in the preparation room. Full overalls to protect our bodies, protective lenses and goggles to safeguard the eyes, latex gloves and double gloving, foot covering and even carbon filtered respirators should all be considerations when proceeding with your professional duties. We have to keep in mind the spread of the virus is easily transported within our general procedures in the preparation room. As it’s the public’s responsibility to keep our workplaces safe and clean – but more importantly, ourselves. As further developments may occur with the H1N1 virus and any other infectious situation, I will attempt to keep our professionals aware and up to date through useful information and professional advice on Infectious Control and Communicable Diseases affecting the FSANS.  

Respectfully Submitted by

Adam Tipert, Chairman