Health experts have warned that an incoming wave of swine flu could bring North West businesses to a stand-still this Winter.
The Department of Health has reported a doubling in the number of cases this week, with an estimated 53,000 new infections, and government bodies are gearing up for a widespread pandemic over the winter period.
Now an independent health watchdog has stepped in to warn local business leaders of the potential damage to Merseyside's economy, as it emerged that many bosses are totally unprepared for an outbreak.
Keith Gorman from Health@Work said; "Businesses need to prepare for this pandemic which could see their workforces cut by half or more.
"We are advising companies to put systems in place to minimise the transfer of infection and have procedures in place to operate with severe staff shortages.
"This all may sound over the top, but someone infected with Swine Flu could expect to be off work for two to three weeks and Swine Flu is highly infectious.
"Small firms in particular need to be prepared as even a few staff off ill at once could literally bring the company to a standstill."
Health@Work is sending information packs to businesses on how to deal with the pandemic. However for more information call 0151 236 6608 or visit www.healthatworkcentre.org.uk.
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