To: Virtua
Subject: ON BEHALF OF PAUL SARNESE / Swine Flu Update

In response to the Swine Flu outbreak, the Virtua Emergency Management team has formulated guidelines for the protection and safety of its employees, patients and visitors. The information and findings are evolving and changing daily, and we will update you as necessary. The VINE will be the primary repository for all updates. Please check daily for updates that may affect our response.
We have implemented the following precautions consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines which have been established to promote safety for employees, patients and the community:

• There is precautionary signage in the ER waiting rooms and entrances as well as masks and tissues for patients and personnel to use.

• Patients at risk with flu-like symptoms who have recently traveled to Mexico are at risk and will be triaged immediately and brought to treatment areas in the ER. Patients from New Jersey with flu-like symptoms will be treated and triaged similarly.

• Segregated areas have been developed in the ER for those with respiratory symptoms in case of overflow.

• As a precaution, ER triage/registrars and ER “greeters” will wear surgical masks when first meeting patients.

• Patients who are suspected of having the virus will be isolated within the ER and staff is following airborne and contact precautions. Personnel will use N-95 masks.

• Hospitalized patients who are suspected of having the virus will be isolated with negative pressure and staff will adhere to airborne and contact precautions. Personnel will use N-95 respirator masks.

• Transport of patients throughout the hospital will be avoided. Consult Infection Prevention if transport is required.

• In compliance with recent New Jersey guidelines, only admitted inpatients with suspected virus should be tested.

• Visitors who have traveled to Mexico within the last seven days or those with flu-like symptoms are being asked to refrain from visiting unless it is critical; they need to contact Infection Control prior to any visit for approval.

• Employees, physicians, and independent licensed practitioners who visited Mexico within the last seven days are requested to contact the Infection Prevention Office at (609) 267-0700 x 44126.

Martin Topiel, MD, Virtua Infection Control Officer
Paul Sarnese, System Director