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Flu Prevention
September 2009 
 Greetings!
 

The flu season is rapidly approaching and concerns about H1N1 influenza (swine flu) are the hot topic these days.  As children go back to school, they will be sharing more than pencils-they will share germs too.  Our days are filled with busy schedules and stress, leaving us more tired and our immune system vulnerable.  These factors, among others, can be the invitation for sickness.  The vaccine for H1N1 is still in development and will not be available until mid-fall.  The following information is designed to give you a jump start on fighting the upcoming viruses.

 
hand washing

YOU......The higher risk populations include:

Pregnant moms (the most vulnerable), those that have household contact with chil­dren under six months old, general healthcare workers (hospital, clinic, EMS), chil­dren ages six months to 24 years of age, and adults ages 25-64 with certain medical conditions that may leave them more vulnerable to complications from any infection.

 

How do you know if you have influenza?  Possible symptoms are:

Chills and fever                                                     Muscle aches and pains

Fatigue, weakness                                   Sore throat     
  • Headache                                                             Runny nose, nasal congestion

Loss of appetite                                                   Dry Cough                  

                                      Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are possible
 

For additional information, check withTri-County Health Department at: www.tchd.org



 

What to do if you think you have the flu...

Stay home; avoid contact with others

Wash your hands thoroughly and often

Use hand sanitizers

When you sneeze, use the crook of your arm (inside of your elbow) to minimize spraying germs

Take acetaminophen (such as TylenolŪ ) or ibuprofen (AdvilŪ) for aches and pains

Drink lots of non-alcoholic fluids to stay hydrated

Check with your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate course of action

Get lots of rest

And again...wash your hands thoroughly and often!


 

Checklist to prepare for an illness...

Keep juices, soups, chicken broth, gelatin (to keep you hy­drated and keep your energy up)

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Tissues (dispose of in the trash and limit touching other peo­ple's tissues-if you do, make sure you wash your hands)

Throat lozenges or hard candies to suck on if your throat is sore

Phone numbers to your healthcare provider and a family mem­ber or friend in case you start to feel worse

A good book or a few movies since you will be staying home for awhile

Stay home and if possible, avoid contact with others to avoid spreading infection

 

 
 
 

Additional resources:  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  www.cdc.gov/h1n1lfu or www.flu.gov

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment   www.cdphe.state.co.us

If you found this information helpful, please forward it on to your friends and family.



 
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