The spring of 2009 saw the arrival of a new strain of flu, H1N1, and public health officials continue to have concerns about the development of other dangerous flu strains.

H1N1 is still a threat in 2011 and it is important, for churches to take precautions during flu season to minimize the risk to congregation members. 

The following are guidelines to consider:

Consider forming a Flu Preparedness Team in your church made up of church staff members, healthcare professionals, public safety professionals and/or other interested leaders to develop a specific plan for your church. 

Make sure your public areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized regularly, especially children’s areas where toys are shared.

Make sure your church has hand sanitizers, anti-bacterial soaps and disposable tissues located in strategic places throughout the church, including bathrooms, entry areas, nursery check-in stations, kitchens and offices. In some contexts, you may want to add small bottles of hand sanitizer to the pew rack.

Use bulletin boards, bulletins, newsletters and announcement screens to remind people to cover their mouths and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and to wash hands with soap and water.

For the complete Church Flu Preparedness Guideline click here.

For addition Flu Preparedness news, resources, and information, available in English and Spanish, click here.

CMS Administrator Don Berwick Discusses the Flu