by Inside The Chrysalis

Created on: April 29, 2009   Last Updated: May 04, 2009

At a time when consumer's economic insecurities are on heightened alert, the swine flu outbreak stands to increase health insecurities as well. This worldwide concern could mean a boost for businesses in the health sector. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), there are a few things people can do to prevent spreading of the swine flu.

Washing hands is the safest and easiest way to prevent the spread of any virus. The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds or more. Companies like Colgate Palmolive [CL] offer an array of antibacterial soaps easily obtained at a local grocery or convenience store. Schools, hospitals and businesses will no doubt stockpile antibacterial soap and include reminders about washing hands to school children and employees.

If washing hands in public facilities is not feasible due to lack of soap or warm water, hand-sanitizer is a popular choice to get rid of germs. Johnson and Johnson [JNJ], makers of Purell hand sanitizer is the most popular brand for schools and health organizations.

Wiping down surfaces is another way to halt viral germs. Clorox [CLX] manufactures wipes for use in public areas and in the home. Some wipes contain bleach for added germ-killing power. The CDC states that germs can live on surfaces for up to two hours. Wiping down tables, doorknobs and counters after use can prevent people from getting sick.

As people become more sensitive to the swine flu outbreak, and as the number of infected grows, masks will be seen on many people in public places. 3M [MMM] manufactures the N95 mask that is popular during flu outbreaks. It has a 95% filter efficiency level and is National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved. These are easily obtained at retail outlets or on-line, and are relatively inexpensive.

If these measures have not served to prevent the spread of infection, then treatment will be necessary. Medications like oseltamivir, licensed by Gilead Sciences [GILD], and zanamivir, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline [GXOLF] are recommended by the CDC to treat the swine flu virus. Oseltamivir is an anti-viral drug given in capsules or in powder form for oral suspension. Zanamivir is also an anti-viral drug treating influenza A and B strains.

The simple preventative measures of washing hands, wiping down surfaces and wearing masks will protect many who fall in sensitive demographic areas. The young and elderly will benefit from taking these precautionary measures, and the general public will most likely heed gentle reminders posted in public facilities.

Most of the products mentioned are easily obtainable, inexpensive and portable. As day-to-day activities continue, having a bag of wipes, a mask and antibacterial soap or sanitizer will prevent the spread of germs by leaps and bounds. There is a lot the general public can do on its own to protect itself.

As the world awaits a status upgrade from concern to alarm, these companies will do well to have plenty of product on hand for immediate shipment to retail outlets worldwide.

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