The outbreak of H1N1 virus in humans has been severe in 2009. Margaret Chan, the World Health Organization’s director-general, had declared a “public health emergency of international concern” in April this year, as the H1N1 influenza virus continues to impact various countries.
To curb the menace of H1N1 amongst the salon and spa industry, the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) and Barbicide® recently joined hands. They will be working together to create a unique H1N1 Education and Preparedness program for the hair industry to prevent the spread of H1N1 influenza virus.
Barbicide is a disinfectant solution manufactured by King Research. It is the #1 disinfecting cleaning solution in the market and can kill HIV-1, Tuberculosis and H1N1. It is used in barber shops and hair salons to disinfect items such as combs and hair shears. While speaking on their partnership with PBA, Alan Murphy, President of King Research said – “King Research, the makers of Barbicide® is a strong supporter and member of the Professional Beauty Association and it is critical that we support the salon/spa industry as it looks for tools and information on preventing the spread of the H1N1 virus.”
There are many salons & spas in the United States that have seen their employees fall ill due to H1N1 virus. This has led to employee absenteeism which has disturbed the normal business operations. President Obama recently declared a national emergency to deal with the “rapid increase in illness” from the H1N1 influenza virus.
There has been an increased demand for H1N1 resources and information, particularly from salon/spa owners across the United States. To solve all these collective difficulties faced by salon owners and to safeguard their customers from H1N1, PBA and Barbicide will offer a helping hand.
The H1N1 education and preparedness effort was kicked off on Thursday, November 11 with the launch of a robust online toolkit. It includes a Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist, FAQ on H1N1, Recognizing the differences in types of flu and Tips to Prepare. Both the organizations are planning to include a webinar on salon/spa sanitation and disinfection best practices and several workshops during the International Salon & Spa Expo in Long Beach, California January 30 – February 1, 2010.
If you are worried about how to fight off H1N1 this season or want more information about this H1N1 education and preparedness program, visit www.probeauty.org/flu


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