Swine Flu Outbreak
The media is focusing on the spread of the swine flu outbreak with cases confirmed in Mexico, the United States and Canada along with potential cases in Spain, Hong Kong and New Zealand. Meanwhile, our Union is taking specific steps to protect AFA Members. Epidemics are often spread through global travel and as Flight Attendants we need to take specific precautions to protect ourselves and against the spread of any virus.
AFA has been in regular contact with United Airlines. United Medical is in contact with the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization and continues to receive updates and recommendations on policies and procedures to handle the developing situation.
Our Union has also formally requested the Federal Aviation Administration issue an emergency order requiring airlines to:
- Provide non-latex gloves and appropriate masks to Flight Attendants, at least on trips to, from, and within areas that are at increased risk. Allow Flight Attendants to choose whether or not they wear these gloves/masks. At the very least, allow Flight Attendants to wear their own gloves/masks, without discipline;
- Ensure that aircraft are equipped with proper and sufficient hand washing materials, and emphasize the importance of regular and thorough hand washing, and not touching one's face, to crew and passengers; and
- Develop, implement, and enforce passenger-screening as recommended by the WHO, CDC, or the relevant national health officials; and
- Tell Flight Attendants what steps to take if a passenger shows symptoms.
Symptoms of the swine flue are similar to seasonal flu - cough, fever, sore throat, headache, runny nose, general fatigue and muscle pains. If you experience any flu-like symptoms you should contact your primary care physician or seek immediate medical care.
Standard procedures for prevention remain in effect - frequent hand washing and avoiding contact between hands and your face, especially after contact with anyone you suspect may be ill. Wherever you fly, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol wipes, particularly before eating or drinking. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. If you have cuts or open sores on your hands, you should wear gloves, which will help in prevention of being infected; however remember not to touch your face while wearing gloves.
Read the full memo from AFA International Safety and Health 
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