If you do not have a contingency plan for responding to an influenza outbreak currently in place - don't panic, but don't wait any longer. For detailed instructions on how to develop a basic Emergency Preparedness Plan you can visit www.AllSafeMart.org for a free template, training materials and other resources.

Regarding Influenza: What are some simple steps that you can take today?

Express to your employees the importantance of their conscientious efforts for infectious disease control. Here are some handy flyers you can post and share with your team:

Flu/Influenza: A 5-Minute Safety Training Aid

Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs

2. Keep Your Business Going

Assess both your vulnerabilities and the resources that will enable you to respond potential challenges such as:

- reduced workforce (whether through illness or because of school closures)

- supply chain disruption

- exposure risks for both employees and customers

- community regulations/guidelines

- more examples can be found at: http://www.osha.gov/Publications/influenza_pandemic.html#maintain_operations

Here is a detailed check list for elements to consider for influenza-specific contingency plans:

Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist

Human Capital staff are available to assist you with emergency planning tools and sample policies to address the needs of your workforce. Please contact Deirdre Pattillo ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) 210.458.2096 or Faith Hinchman ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) 210.458.2430 for further assistance.

And remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Plan - Don't Panic.