Information from Susan Fullerton, RN
The news media is full of information about flu (influenza) and the novel H1N1 virus, a new and different flu virus. There are steps that we can all take to stay healthier and to protect ourselves from illness. We are staying in close contact with our local and regional public health officials, and we will be following their recommendations and guidance. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through the coughing or sneezing of infected people. According to the recommendations of the CDC (Center for Disease Control), everyday actions that we can all take to stay healthy include:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use if. Sneeze or cough into your sleeve if you do not have a tissue.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Teach your child to take these actions too.
- Stay home if you are sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from school or work and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Children should stay home from school until their fever has been gone for 24 hours without any fever-reducing medications (such as tylenol or ibuprofen).
- Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information.
Some additional resources and information are listed below.