President Barack Obama commented in New York Times reports that schools with confirmed cases of swine flu should consider closing in an effort to minimize the threat of an outbreak.

While speaking at the White House, Obama said he wants Americans to know the government is doing “whatever is necessary” to contain the emerging health threat. He continued, saying it is the recommendation of public health officials that authorities at schools with confirmed or suspected cases of swine flu ''should strongly consider temporarily closing so that we can be as safe as possible.''

While closed, jan/san workers should take this opportunity to thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire facility. Doing so will provide defense against swine flu and other bacteria, while providing a safe and healthy environment for students and staff.

To arm cleaners with the information necessary to properly protect against pandemic health issues, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has developed Pandemic Influenza Preparedness and Response Guidance materials.