Swine Flu Guide Released For Small Businesses

Federal officials are now saying that small business owners should be prepared to operate with fewer employees this fall as swine flu spreads across the country.

A guidebook released by the Department of Homeland Security recommends small businesses identify their essential operations and have plans for operating with reduced staffing. The government also says businesses should consider letting employees work from home if they get sick.

The agency is reporting that small businesses could be particularly vulnerable to a pandemic because they often "have fewer resources, they work with leaner staffs and absenteeism can be a particular issue."

The announcement is the latest in a series of recommendations as the federal government braces for a potentially virulent outbreak this fall, which could hurt businesses by keeping workers at home.

Dr. Daniel Jernigan of the Centers for Disease Control said small businesses may need to change their leave policies to allow employees stay home longer if they become sick. He recommended workers stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever has subsided.

To download the booklet, visit www.sba.gov/flu