H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

Flu prevention, whether H1N1 “Swine Flu” or regular seasonal flu, is accomplished through a few simple public health measures:

• CDC recommends a yearly seasonal flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against seasonal influenza.  Remember, the seasonal flu can be just as devastating as H1N1 flu and should also be taken seriously.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.
• Avoid touching your nose and mouth as much as possible.  The H1N1 flu virus is often spread when a person touches a contaminated object and then touches their nose or mouth.
• Avoid other people who are sick.  It sounds easy but be aware of people in public exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
• Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.  If a tissue is unavailable, cough or sneeze into your elbow and not your hand.  Coughing in your hand increases the likeliness of passing H1N1 flu virus to others via direct or indirect contact.
• Places with large numbers of people such as sports arenas, gyms, shopping centers or movie theaters require extra vigilance.  If a large outbreak of H1N1 influenza has occurred in your area it will be safer to avoid these locations if possible.