So by now you have heard about the outbreak of Swine Flu from Mexico City and may be worried. Here are some things that you can do to make sure you are protected:
1) Wash Hands
- though this sounds simple, this is the biggest and most effective way to prevent the spread of viruses
- Proper washing consists of 1)wetting your hands 2) applying soap to hands and vigorously rubbing, paying close attention to areas under nails, between fingers, and wrists
2) Coughing/Sneezing in Elbows
- If you have to cough or sneeze, do so in your elbow (as the World Health Organization recommends). Why? Germs are less likely to be spread from person to person when you don't cough on your hand and then touch other surfaces or your own eyes and mouth
- Plus it's gross to be on the train and get coughed on!
3) Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated which helps rid flu like systems and other illnesses
4) Stay Home and Rest
- If you have a fever, cough, body aches, chills stay home and rest. This is the best way to combat most illnesses including the swine flu
5) Forget Using a Mask
- Most people don't use them correctly and they cause others to worry rather than take real precautions like washing your hands and coughing in elbows
Finally, if you are CONVINCED you or someone you know may have this illness, the ONLY PLACE to have it CONFIRMED is at your area's DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH; your doctor CANNOT detect swine flu with traditional influenza (flu) tests.
Tamiflu is for TRADITIONAL flu, so it will not protect against this strain of the flu.
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1 comments:
Tamiflu and Relenza are both approved for this illness. But neither of them cures the disease. They just shorten the time you are sick. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control have dropped the name "swine flu" and are calling it H1N1 Influenza A. Most people will get well without any treatment. Only the very young, very old, very sick BEFORE getting the flu and people with severe respiratory illnesses need special treatment.
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