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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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September 29, 2009 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Preventing Flu And Flu-Like Illness
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
There is hardly a day that
goes by without news of the Novel H1N1 flu. As colleges and grade
schools have come back into session, it is clear that the Novel H1N1 flu
didn't leave us, but just took a vacation. Seasonal flu shots are
available now and it is a good idea to get one. Novel H1N1 vaccinations
are in the works, but the initial supply will be targeted (based on
scientific study) to certain populations at greater risk for
complications of the flu. Down the road, it will probably be available
for all people, but that is going to take some time. However, there are
several important actions you can take to help prevent getting and/or
spreading the flu.
The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST)
met recently about Novel H1N1 flu. Their overarching message was
“through behavior, individuals can have a potentially big impact on the
flu season's severity.” The behaviors that have been identified are:
• Use respiratory etiquette. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough
and sneeze with a tissue. (If a tissue is unavailable, at least try to
cough into your sleeve.) Dispose of used tissues in a trash can.
• Wash your hands frequently and properly with soap and water,
especially after you cough or sneeze. This is one of the most important
actions you can take to prevent the spread of illnesses in yourself and
others. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective for removing
germs (but not dirt.)
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness (defined as a fever of 100
degrees or higher and a cough or sore throat) stay home for at least 24
hours after your fever is gone without the use of a fever-reducing
medicine. The rest of the office or your child's school does not want
your germs.
• When you are sick, stay home (except to seek medical care or toher
necessities) and limit contact with others . This will help to prevent
the spread of infection. In addition, try to avoid persons who are ill
if you can.
If you have a medical condition or if a viral illness that doesn't show
signs of improvement within a few days, it is a good idea to check with
your health care provider (by phone first) if you have an influenza-like
illness. This is especially true if the illness is accompanied by a high
fever, unusual symptoms, difficulty breathing, moderate pain or other
severe symptoms. While most people recover without complication from the
garden-variety viral illness, others may develop complications such as
sinusitis or pneumonia.
District residents (Bethany, Hamden , North Haven and Woodbridge ) can
receive a free packet on flu and its prevention by calling QVHD,
248-4528 or request on line, www.qvhd.org.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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