Yesterday the World Health Organization raised its alert level for
influenza A (H1N1), or swine flu, from Phase 5 to Phase 6, the
highest level of pandemic alert. This designates a sustained spread
of the virus in more than one region.
This designation reflects the scope and spread of the virus, not
its severity. While influenza A (H1N1) remains a public health
threat and the future course of the disease is unpredictable,
health officials state that the overwhelming majority of people
with confirmed cases experience mild symptoms and make a rapid and
full recovery.
While the disease is expected to continue to spread, health
authorities do not expect to see a dramatic increase in the number
of severe or fatal infections. Rather, the pandemic announcement
serves as a global call to governments to increase
preparedness.
In view of the heightened alert level, AMS at this stage will
reiterate the actions and guidance we had previously
communicated:
AMS is continuing to monitor the worldwide swine influenza
situation. This communication will inform you of our current
position and plan, and confirm that we are taking the proper and
prudent actions.
We are following and will continue to follow the World Health
Organisation (WHO, www.who.int/en/) and Health Protection
Agency (HPA, www.hpa.org.uk/) recommendations and
notices across all our offices globally. Our actions include
periodic internal reviews as part of our internal Business
Continuity Plans, periodic client and supplier information, and
communications and health and safety reminders for our
employees.
Our outsourcing business model means our employees are dispersed
across many organisations and offices outside of Alexander Mann
Solutions. Where appropriate, these employees will follow and
adhere to our client communications on this matter, whilst
continuing to receive all our communications and updates.
As a precaution, we are going to introduce hand sanitizers
to our offices for employees and visitors. We will be following the
UK NHS guidelines as outlined in the "Catch it, Kill it, Bin it"
campaign. At this stage, we do not intend to cancel or restrict
client and/or supplier visits to our offices.
At this time, there are no known cases of swine influenza
reported at any Alexander Mann Solutions location, or from any
Alexander Mann Solutions’ employee. We believe our diversity of
staff, locations and our strategic use of internet-based web
browser applications will enable us to greatly minimise any impact
the swine influenza scenario should impose.
We will keep you informed of any significant changes in our
preparation or the actions we take. Assuming there is no change in
the World Health Organisation classification of this situation as
Phase 5, our next planned communication will be provided within one
week.
Please contact John Wainwright should you have any questions
relating to this matter by email.