H1N1 (Swine) Flu Safety |
by Rachel Mick, Community Health Information Service (CHIS) Coordinator |
Come to the upcoming Community Health programs! |
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, 2009 H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.
There is no vaccine available yet to protect against 2009 H1N1 virus. However, a 2009 H1N1 vaccine is in production and may be available in the fall. Until then, there are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.
Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. CDC recommends that when you wash your hands that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
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Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
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If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.
Do you have more questions? The Library’s Community Health Information Service (CHIS) has more health information to read and discuss with your doctor. We have databases that will help you find articles on 2009 H1N1 flu from newspapers and magazines. If you would like to learn more about 2009 H1N1 or have other health-related questions, please contact the Community Health Information Service at 233-2736. Please also visit CHIS at the Main Library or on the web at www.pbclibrary.org/health.htm.
Related links:
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Health on the Internet |
Greenacres:
Tues., Oct. 6,
6:00 p.m. |
Main Library:
Thurs., Oct. 15,
10:00 a.m. |
West Boca:
Thurs., Nov. 12,
2:00 p.m. |
West Boynton:
Tues., Dec. 8,
2:00 p.m. |
Natural Medicine |
West Boca:
Mon., Oct. 19,
2:00 p.m. |
Greenacres:
Mon., Nov. 16,
5:30 p.m. |
Main Library:
Weds., Nov. 18,
12:30 p.m. |
Lantana Road:
Thurs., Dec. 10,
2:00 p.m. |
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Posted: 09/16/09 |
