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Flu task forces add a layer of protection

Emergency Management Alert, November 30, 2004

Task forces may help address issues surrounding vaccine shortage, the Daily Freeman reported last week. Hospitals in Kingston, NY, are using task forces to educate and identify the flu.

"How well we get through this flu season depends on how well we are able to get vaccine to the high-risk community, identify and treat (those with the flu), and isolate known (flu) patients from those at high risk," Marc Tack, MD, an infectious disease specialist who is working with both committees told the Freeman. "There is much more awareness, and people are really going out of their way to protect the community."

The task force goal is to encourage employees with the flu to stay home, as well as visiting patients, visitors, and people undergoing elective procedures. In addition, signs at both Kingston and Benedictine hospitals offer tips to avoid contracting the virus.

Greeters and security personnel are also on the lookout for people with flu-like symptoms, Tack said. If they suspect a person is infected, they will ask them to leave the hospital or wear a surgical mask. Tissues, masks, and gloves are distributed to hospital personnel to give to anyone who appears to have flu-like symptoms too.

The flu task forces, in addition to offering prevention strategies, also are working to educate the public about new treatments for the flu, Tack said. A new swab test, he said, can diagnose the virus within an hour, and antiviral medications can treat the flu if administered early.

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