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H1N1 flu alertThe ongoing outbreak of novel influenza A (H1N1) continues to expand in the United States and internationally. More cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths from this outbreak are expected over the coming days and weeks. H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April. Other countries are reporting people sick with this new virus. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.Globally, the swine flu outbreak has been designated a “pandemic potential” by public health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Frequently Asked Questions Additional Resources: How Does H1N1 Flu Differ from Seasonal Flu? Influenza of any kind has the potential to be deadly, and is monitored closely by public health organizations worldwide. This novel influenza A (H1N1) is of particular concern because this strain appears to be highly contagious and is spreading rapidly. Also, anytime a new strain of the flu develops, it can spread fast because people don’t have a natural immunity, current vaccinations aren’t effective and new vaccines can take months to develop. How Can I Tell if I Have H1N1 Flu? H1N1 flu has symptoms that are similar to seasonal influenza (type A). These symptoms generally include cough, sore throat, fever, chills, headache, fatigue, sometimes nausea and diarrhea. If you have ever had the flu before, you’ll recognize the symptoms right away. However, having flu symptoms does not automatically mean you have swine flu. The only way to know for sure is to complete a lab test. Am I at Risk of Getting H1N1 Flu? Because this is a variant strain of influenza A, you should not assume you are immune, even if you have had a flu shot. Everyone is encouraged to take preventive steps to decrease exposure to contagions and prevent spreading the virus to others. H1N1 flu worsens pre-existing medical conditions in people, so people with already compromised immune systems are at increased risk of dying as a result of contracting the flu and should take extra precautions. What Ways Might I Be Exposed to H1N1 Flu? Rumors and myths abound, but you can blame the usual suspects when it comes to passing along the virus. Human-to-human contact is the leading path of infection. The virus can become airborne through coughing and sneezing, and the virus can live for two hours or longer on things an infected person touches, such as door handles, desks, telephones and restaurant tables. In some settings where a person comes in contact with live swine, it may be possible for the virus to be spread from an infected animal to a person. However, you cannot contract H1N1 flu from eating or coming in contact with properly cooked pork-derived products. How Is H1N1 Flu Treated? Early diagnosis provides the most and best options for effective treatment. Anti-viral medicines Tamiflu and Relenza work best if taken within two days of developing symptoms, because they prevent the virus from reproducing inside the body. Anti-viral medications can also lessen the severity of the symptoms. If flu symptoms are accompanied by a respiratory or sinus infection, an antibiotic will also be prescribed. Are H1N1 Flu Tests and Medications Covered by My Blue Cross Insurance? Specific medical benefits are customized based on an employer’s or individual’s health plan and what type of plan you have (PPO, HMO, HSA). Where you go to get tested, what portion you pay for care and what medications are covered by your prescription drug plan will all be based on your coverage. What Should I Do? During normal business hours, we recommend you start with a call to your physician’s office. From first signs of symptoms to severe illness onset, your physician can determine what plan of treatment is warranted. If you do not have an existing relationship with a physician, other options include neighborhood urgent care clinics and hospital-based minor emergency clinics. A trip to a hospital emergency center should be considered a last resort, so that emergency centers can focus staff and resources on the seriously ill. As always, if you are concerned about the immediate safety of yourself or a loved one, particularly a small child or very elderly, call your local emergency medical services (911) first. View some recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO).
When disaster strikes, the potential for a significant business impact is real and immediate. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) is well prepared should the growing novel influenza A (H1N1) flu outbreak challenge our ability to fulfill vital service needs of our groups, members and health professionals. Our Business Continuity Plans are designed to address a broad array of disruptive events that could pose a threat to our business operations or result in a business interruption. Some examples of our business continuity model:
We also have well-established procedures in place to evaluate local and regional situations and rapidly implement coverage policy modifications as needed to respond to our members’ medical care needs. As the threat of pandemic events became more real in recent years, BCBSOK augmented our Business Continuity, Divisional Command Center and Emergency Operations & Crisis Management plans to address specific planning requirements around a possible influenza pandemic based on guidance from federal, state and local agencies as well as from national and international health organizations. To maintain consistency, Blue Cross has aligned its planning and response objectives to the strategies of the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Any and all activities will be guided by and coordinated with federal, state and local initiatives. Summary of Strategic Objectives BCBSOK Pandemic Influenza Strategy At BCBSOK, we understand that our groups and members look to us during situations that threaten the health and well being of employees and their families. We are committed to delivering exceptional service throughout this public health crisis. |
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