09 MAY 2009

H1N1  SPECIAL UPDATE

AFA has been advised that two NWA Flight Attendants are being quarantined for 10 days in Japan as a result of three Japanese passengers having tested positive for the H1N1 virus.  A large number of passengers (approximately 53) are also being held following that same May 7 flight from Detroit.  These are the first confirmed cases of H1N1 in Japan and we can expect considerable media attention as a result.  The matter is under the jurisdiction of Japan's Ministry of Health.  Once they have officially advised NWA, we anticipate other crewmembers aboard that same flight will be contacted by NWA to advise of the matter--including any pertinent information regarding follow up testing. 

Please continue to take appropriate measures to protect yourself as outlined in previous bulletins/hotlines and remain vigilant on your flights.  Report any passengers with flu-like symptoms (as per the CDC guidelines) to the Flight Deck.  More information will be forthcoming. -- Submitted by

Gary Helton--Emergency Response Coordinator

MEC Vice  Chair, Air Safety, Health and Security