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H1N1 virus information
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) describes the new H1N1 virus as a new flu virus of swine origin that was first detected in April, 2009. The virus is infecting people and is spreading from person-to-person, sparking a growing outbreak of illness in the United States. An increasing number of cases are being reported internationally as well. The CDC’s U.S. toll free number is 1-800-CDC-INFO.
What should you do to protect yourself?
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There is nothing you can do to fully protect yourself 100%.
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Common sense is very important here.
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If you are sick, stay at home and take precautions.
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Call your doctor.
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If you are outside and suspect someone else is sick, move away at least 2 meters.
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Wash your hands thoroughly, especially after you have been out and you come back home.
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This washing-hands-after-you-come-home habit should be a lifelong one.
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Wear a face mask if you are sick or suspect someone else is sick.
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Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze.
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If a tissue is not available right away, sneeze into your sleeve and NEVER sneeze onto your hands because you will spread the germs.
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Do not touch your eyes and mouth unless you have washed your hands thoroughly.
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Have alcohol-based cleaners handy to clean your hands when you can not wash them.
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Drink a lot of clear fluids and eat well.
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Get plenty of rest.
What is a pandemic?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a pandemic is when a disease epidemic occurs when there are more cases of that disease than normal. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic of a disease. An influenza pandemic may occur when a new influenza virus appears against which the human population has no immunity. With the increase in global transport, as well as urbanization and overcrowded conditions in some areas, epidemics due to a new influenza virus are likely to take hold around the world, and become a pandemic faster than before. WHO has defined the phases of a pandemic to provide a global framework to aid countries in pandemic preparedness and response planning. Pandemics can be either mild or severe in the illness and death they cause, and the severity of a pandemic can change over the course of that pandemic.
Check here for more information on pandemics from the World Health Organization.
Check back often for updates. |
