Please see the message below from Steve Walker, Safety & Security for ACE. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact Steve here.
Dear ACE Riders:
Over the past few weeks, public health officials in the United States and throughout the world have been investigating outbreaks of H1N1 swine influenza (swine flu) and U.S. officials have declared a national public health emergency. President Barack Obama has stated that the threat of spreading swine flu infections is a concern but "not a cause for alarm.”
Out of concern for our passengers, we want to take this opportunity to share with you the guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on how the swine flu is transmitted, steps you can take to prevent the spread of swine flu and symptoms associated with this outbreak. We are in close coordination with federal authorities as to the actions public transit operators should take to help protect their passengers as they travel in close spaces. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and will update you on any new public health recommendations or additional actions being taken by ACE Rail.
What is the Swine Flu?
Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by a type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs. Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans; however, human infections with swine flu do occur. Human-to-human spread of swine flu occurs in the same way as regular seasonal flu, through the coughing or sneezing of infected people. Swine flu is not transmitted by eating pork products.
How Can I Help Prevent the Spread of Swine Flu?
There are several things you can do to prevent the further spread of swine flu. As a courtesy to your fellow passengers:
• If you are ill or have flu-like symptoms, avoid close contact with others as much as possible and the CDC advises that you do not go to work, school or travel (including not using public transportation).
• Avoid contact with people who are ill.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in a trash can.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an antibacterial gel if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
What are the Symptoms of the Swine Flu?
The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and may include:
• Fever (greater than 100oF or 37.8oC)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Stuffy nose
• Chills
• Headache and body aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting and diarrhea
Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
People entering the United States who are experiencing the symptoms noted above and have traveled to an affected area or have been exposed to someone possibly infected during the last seven days should report their illnesses to their doctor immediately and inform them about their recent travel.
Where Can I Go for More Information?
• Contact your local or state health department
• Visit http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
• Contact CDC 24 Hours/Every Day
1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636)
TTY: 1-888-232-6348
cdcinfo@cdc.gov
