Swine Flu: Know How to Protect Yourself

The H1N1 virus, commonly known as "swine flu" is spreading more and more as the school year progresses. H1N1 is a variation of the flu virus and is usually found in pigs, but this particular strain is being passed to people.

While flu shots are available at your doctor and various pharmacies, including Walgreen's, they do not protect against the swine flu. Vaccinations for H1N1 are expected to be available around the country in mid-October, but there won't enough vaccines for everyone just yet.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists several preventative tips. While the following suggestions may seem simple and common sense, they can help prevent you and others from contracting H1N1:

• Wash your hands frequently. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer when you are out in your purse or car.

• Avoid hand-to-hand contact with others whenever possible.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.

• Stay away from anyone exhibiting flu like symptoms.

• Avoid touching anything the general public touches (door handles, pens, etc.). When you must touch something (such as a keypad at checkout), wash as soon as possible.

• Do not eat or drink after others.

Know the symptoms of H1N1 so you will be able to detect it as soon as possible if you contract the virus. While you don't need to go overboard and into panic mode if you have a cough, be able to recognize when it is time to contact your doctor or schedule an appointment.

H1N1 symptoms include:

• Temperature over 100.4 °F

• Fatigue

• Sore muscles

• Cold-like symptoms including sore throat, runny nose, or cough

If you experience a combination of those symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible and make sure to take every precaution, in order to contain a suspected H1N1 virus.

While many people have been diagnosed with having the swine flu virus, it hasn't proven fatal for everyone. Certain groups of people are considered to be at a higher risk for contracting H1N1 and experience more serious complications, including:

• Babies and young children

• The elderly

• People who have lung problems

• Pregnant women

Do everything you can to protect yourself and your children from H1N1. Take extra time to go over the prevention tips with your children without frightening them, but realize that schools are reporting swine flu outbreaks.

Source:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention