Catch the Flu This Fall? Stay Home, No Doctor's Note Required

Aug. 19, 2009— -- Government health officials called on employers today to "set the right tone within their companies" in the face of a potentially challenging flu season ahead.

"In America, we love to praise the Puritan work ethic," said Commerce Secretary Gary Locke. "But this fall, it would serve the country better to praise common sense and responsibility."

New federal guidelines released today ask business leaders to promote good hygiene in the workplace, develop plans for work continuity in the event of a flu outbreak, and encourage employees to get vaccinated for flu.

"Planning is essential," said Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. "[Many businesses are] busy dealing with a very, very tough economy and may not have taken time to really think through what a heavy flu season means."

Officials say companies need contingency plans that allow workers to telecommute and work in staggered shifts. And if a flu outbreak becomes severe, they say, companies may need to reduce face-to-face meetings or cut back on nonessential travel.

"Let's not just play wait-and-see. Let's be proactive," said Napolitano.

Many businesses across the country have been reviewing and updating their emergency policies since H1N1 surfaced last spring.

"Most companies already have contingency plans in place for larger hazards," said Ann Beauchesne with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "[Swine flu] is just one more piece."

She said unlike hurricane preparedness, the upcoming flu season poses additional challenges for businesses.

"With this pandemic, we have no idea [what to expect]," she said.

Adding to the uncertainty for business leaders is how a potential flu outbreak will affect schools.