As part of Disneyland Resort’s ongoing commitment to the health and safety of Guests and Cast Members, the Resort has implemented ongoing flu prevention efforts. Since the onset of Influenza A H1N1 last April, a team of experts from Disney Parks and Resorts has been constantly monitoring developments, including President Obama’s declaration of H1N1 as a national emergency in late October and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization.

A total of 19 hand sanitizer locations are available throughout the Disneyland Resort.

The Resort has implemented health-related enhancements to compliment already rigorous cleaning and sanitation protocols. Through these efforts, bulk hand sanitizers have been placed in high-traffic Guest areas, including theme park entrances, hotel lobbies and near high-volume character “meet and greet” locations. Hand sanitizers also are in multiple backstage locations and readily available for use by Cast Members who are in most frequent contact with Guests. In addition, hand sanitizers are available for $1 at merchandise locations throughout the Resort.

As part of the Resort’s commitment to a safe environment, more frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as telephones and drinking fountains has been put into place. In addition, the Resort hotels have implemented enhanced room cleaning procedures for hotel rooms that were occupied by a Guest who had been ill.

“Disney has always been concerned with the health and welfare of its Cast, as evidenced by the free flu shots provided every year,” said Sandi Ecklund, president of Workers United Local 50, which represents approximately 3,420 food and beverage workers at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. “We appreciate that the company makes safety a top priority and we applaud the great job Disney does communicating and providing training so that our members are well prepared.”

When Cast Members are ill, Disney strongly encourages them to stay at home. The Resort has a flexible and generous attendance policy, designed to provide the time off when necessary. What’s more, all full-time hourly employees who are covered by the company’s benefits plan can accrue up to seven days sick pay, which they can carry over year to year.

The Disneyland Resort has long-standing relationships with local health officials and will continue to rely on their guidance and that of the CDC to evaluate and adjust operations to help prevent the spread of the flu and keep Guests and Cast Members safe.