July 7, 2006

WELLER CENTER HELPS AREA BUSINESS PREPARE FOR PANDEMIC FLU

The Weller Health Education Center has developed a program to provide adults with the information they need to prepare for pandemic flu as an employee in the work environment, and also as a family and community member.

Health educators from the Weller Center presented the pilot program to 80 employees from Lafayette Ambassador Bank on Wednesday, July 19^th at the Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Bethlehem.

Funding for the program was provided through a grant from Temple University and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

During the 45-minute program, health educators increased understanding of the differences between seasonal and pandemic flu, encouraged understanding of the current threat of an avian flu pandemic and provided the knowledge and tools necessary to prepare for such a pandemic. Participants also received a disaster preparedness kit.

Although there is currently very limited human-to-human transmission of the virus, it is essential to be aware of the proper steps to take if and when the virus progresses into a pandemic.

"Our program stresses the importance of how to make informed decisions should a pandemic arise," said Kerri Green, Weller Center health educator.

"Understanding what a pandemic is and what needs to be done on an individual, family and community level is vital," Green added.

The program is available to all businesses and organizations and organizations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call 610-258-8500, ext. 10 for more information.