Hand Sanitizing Key to Swine Flu Prevention

First identified in Mexico in April, Swine Flu (Influenza A virus H1N1) is now found in 70 countries and all 50 US states. Declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in June 2009, US health officials estimate that a least one million Americans have been infected already. While most cases are mild, Swine Flu can be quite serious and even deadly.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says Swine Flu spreads in a way that is similar to the seasonal flu - via droplets expelled by speaking, sneezing, or coughing. Although the virus only lives on dry surfaces for short periods of time, Swine Flu infections can also spread by simply touching contaminated surfaces - making a strong case for the benefits of hand sanitization.

"Hand washing is probably the single most important act to help stop the spread of infection," said Mike Adams, PolyJohn's Managing Director. "In fact, scientists estimate that people are not washing their hands often or well enough and may transmit up to 80 percent of all infections by their hands."

With a limited supply of H1N1 vaccines, the CDC recommends that the spread of the virus can be prevented by simply avoiding contact with sick people, staying home from work or school if you are sick, and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

The CDC also recommends washing hands often with soap and water (especially after coughing or sneezing) or using alcohol-based hand cleaners.

"More often than not," says Adams, "people don't wash their hands because hand washing and sanitizing units are not easily accessible."

"However," he continued, "our products can be used anywhere because they are portable."

PolyJohn offers a variety of portable sinks and hand sanitizing stations that can be used in virtually any surrounding - from schools to outdoor events and farm fields to construction sites. Convenient, easy-to-clean, and portable, PolyJohn portable hand washing stations and freestanding hand sanitizer stations make it easy to ensure that all people have the opportunity to wash their hands whenever and wherever they need to.

Serge Coronas, owner of Circus Hollywood, a traveling circus show based in Bradenton, Florida, uses PolyJohn's portable hand sanitization products as a benefit to his customers. Explained Corona, "I use SaniStand stations near all of my concession areas. Our customers really appreciate it because it gives them peace of mind knowing they can sanitize their hands before eating."

While hand sanitization may not completely eliminate the risk of becoming infected with Swine Flu or other communicable diseases, it is a preventative measure that cannot be overlooked. To learn more about the benefits of portable hand washing or hand sanitizing stations in your school, at your job site, or for your event, contact PolyJohn Enterprises directly at 800-292-1305 or visit us online at www.polyjohn.com.

PolyJohn Enterprises, headquarterd in Whiting, Indiana, is a global distributor of portable sanitation solutions. It offers the industry's largest selection of portable, hand sanitizing solutions.

Prevent the Spread of Swine Flu

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza, you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.