What swine flu?

A new Harris poll suggests that 74% of U.S. adults say it is unlikely they will contract H1N1 (commonly known as swine flu) this year. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) predicts that up to 40% of Americans could be infected with H1N1 through 2010.

The survey, commissioned by SCA Tissue North America’s Tork brand, “highlights widespread confusion about the cause of the H1N1 virus and the preventative methods associated with it,” according to a statement.

Harris conducted an online survey of 2,123 adults (18 years and older) between Sept. 15-17 and found that 50% of respondents reported they are confident they could protect themselves from contracting the virus.

OTHER FINDINGS
• 38% say they won’t be washing their hands more frequently this flu season and 48% are not planning to take advantage of available flu shots.

• Nearly four in 10 U.S. adults (38%) think H1N1 is spread through exposure to the virus in public places, and 7% believe that simply touching someone with the virus can lead to infection. (According to the CDC, influenza is spread person-to-person when infected people cough or sneeze. In addition, the virus can survive for up to 72 hours on common surfaces like faucets or door handles.)

• Overall, 93% of U.S. adults say they believe hand sanitizers were at least somewhat effective in preventing the spread of H1N1. When a sink and soap are unavailable, hand sanitizers can also minimize the risk of infection.

• 77% report H1N1 for themselves or family member would impact work.

• 26% said work performance would be impacted.

• 21% would have to take unpaid time off.

• 36% would use paid sick time but 16% would have to use paid vacation.

• 6% reported they might lose their job, while 2% reported they would definitely lose their job.