DUHS launches online flu resource guide

posted September 16th, 2009

Duke University Health System has launched an “Influenza Resource Guide.”  The website has been developed as a one-stop influenza web portal to guide Duke clinicians, faculty and staff. 

Information includes:

• Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment for Adult and Pediatric Patients
• Testing and Specimen Collection Protocols
• Infection Control Management for Influenza
• Vaccination
• Information for Ill Employees: HR policies and EOHW Guidance
• Educational Information and Handouts for: Patients, Staff, and Visitors
• Useful Links and Resources

As new nH1N1 and seasonal influenza information is obtained, this page will be updated with the latest policies, procedures and guidelines. Clinicians should review the website prior to referring, testing, or treatment of influenza patients to ensure they are compliant with current recommendations from Duke’s Division of Infectious Diseases.

Also of note, last week the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health modified its return to work policy for healthcare workers. Duke University’s Employee Occupational Health and Wellness Department in conjunction with Duke University’s Human Resources Department has modified its return to work policy to reflect the new guidance from the State Division of Public Health. The new policy, in effect immediately, replaces the previous policy that stated healthcare workers with direct patient contact must remain out of work for 7 days from onset of influenza like illness symptoms. Healthcare workers with direct patient contact should now contact Employee Health 24 hours after the resolution of their fever off fever reducing medication for a return to work determination.