|
As news of the H1N1 virus continues to evolve, we wanted to communicate some things that might be helpful for our customers to know. At Giant Eagle, we follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other government agencies to ensure the safety of our customers and Team Members.
It's important to know that the H1N1 virus is not transmitted by eating pork or pork products — eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of this new influenza A virus (H1N1) in people are similar to the symptoms of other seasonal influenzas and include:
- fever
- cough
- sore throat
- body aches
- headache
- chills
- fatigue
A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
Important reminders for reducing the spread of germs
Follow these tips for reducing the spread of germs in general, and reducing your chances of contracting H1N1 virus:
- Avoid close contact with people who are ill with flu-like illnesses (fevers, cough, muscle/joint aches and pains).
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick.
- Follow public health advice regarding school closures.
- Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm or call 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636).
If you have flu-like symptoms, please contact your doctor immediately.
Customer Q&A Regarding H1N1 virus
What is Giant Eagle's approach to reports of the H1N1 virus?
The safety of our customers and Team Members is our top priority. We are following health agency reporting and recommendations, and taking precautions accordingly in our stores, including reminding Team Members about the importance of regularly washing their hands with warm water.
Can I get the H1N1 virus from eating pork?
No. H1N1 viruses are not spread by food, and you cannot get H1N1 virus from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
If it's safe to eat pork, how should it be cooked?
The internal temperature of pork should be 160ºF before consuming. As a general rule, you should separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from other foods while you shop as well as when you store them in the refrigerator. Use one cutting board for raw meat, poultry and seafood, and a separate one for other food.
Can I return any pork products I've bought from Giant Eagle?
While the H1N1 virus is not related to pork products, to help alleviate concern, Giant Eagle will handle returns in the same way we handle other products under the return policy — you always can return food products for whatever reason.
What steps is Giant Eagle taking to make sure the H1N1 virus is not being spread in its stores?
We have communicated to Team Members about the H1N1 virus and signs and symptoms to look for and what to do if someone experiences symptoms. We also are reminding Team Members about the importance of regularly washing their hands with soap and warm water, one of the main ways to avoid spread of the flu.
|
|