This is the time of year when the risk for flu and pneumonia increase, so it is important for all of us to take the proper precautions to safeguard against these vaccine-preventable diseases. Due to concerns about the H1N1 virus (swine flu) and the influenza vaccine shortage, the 2009-2010 flu season has become challenging for physicians.

With a continued active flu season, physicians are advised to take steps to reduce the likelihood that staff will log increased sick time. You can do so by providing seasonal flu shots to staff members, as well as their spouses and children. Furthermore, some experts are advocating cross-training employees so staff can cover for each other in the event of illness. Alcohol-based hand washing should be encouraged among staff to prevent the spread of the illness. 

Free resources are available to physicians and healthcare providers to distribute information to patients and the public about the different types of influenza, immunization recommendations, and flu vaccine availability and to allay fears about serious vaccine reactions. Postings within the office should educate patients about respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a variety of free materials, many in English and Spanish. Free resources, including posters, flyers, brochures, videos, podcasts, and e-cards are available at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/index.htm (accessed 1/7/10).

National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month
American Foundation for Women's Health
P. O. Box 541
Greenwood, TX 76246-0541
(940) 466-9898

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
500 NE Spanish River Boulevard, Suite 8
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(888) OVARIAN (682-7426)
(561) 393-0005

National Cholesterol Education Month
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Health Information Center
P.O. Box 30105
Bethesda, MD 20824-0105
(301) 592-8573
(301) 592-8563 Fax

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Zero - The Project to End Prostate Cancer
10 G Street NE, Suite 601
Washington, DC 20002
(888) 245-9455
(202) 463-9455
(202) 463-9456 Fax

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Board of Sponsors
C1C-315
1800 Concord Pike
Wilmington, DE 19850-5437

Talk About Prescriptions Month
National Council on Patient Information and Education
4915 Saint Elmo Avenue, Suite 505
Bethesda, MD 20814-6082
(301) 656-8565
(301) 656-4464 Fax