H1N1 Swine Flu Prevention Strategies

One of the biggest concerns among medical professionals with the latest strain of the swine flu or H1N1 is the rate at which this virus spreads among individuals due to the fact that most people are not immune or resistant to this virus. The H1N1 flu is primarily contracted and spread from one person to another through coughing, sneezing, or talking, however, it is also possible to become infected when an individual touches a hard surface that has the virus on it and then touches their mouth or nose. In this medical guide on the H1N1 flu, you will learn the precautions that you can take which will greatly decrease your risk of contracting the virus that causes H1N1.

Steps you can take to prevent the H1N1 Flu

The number one recommendation by the "CDC" or "center for disease control" for the prevention of the H1N1 virus is to obtain an H1N1 flu vaccine. While receiving the H1N1 vaccination is voluntary, this recommendation is emphasized for those individuals who are at a higher risk for contracting the virus including adults over the age of sixty five, children under the age of five, pregnant women, and those who have certain medical conditions such as chronic illnesses. Unfortunately, at this time there are only limited supplies available of the H1N1 vaccine and they are first given on a priority basis to those individuals who are at a high risk from having serious complications from the flu, however, it is possible to obtain one of these vaccines by frequently checking with your state and local health departments for the locations and dates of the vaccination clinics.

Whether or not you obtain the H1N1 vaccination there are everyday things that you can do to protect yourself as much as possible from getting this illness that include when you cough or sneeze use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth and ensure that you dispose of it in trash container. Frequent hand washing is essential in protecting from germs and viruses and you should use plenty of soap and warm water. If soap and water is not available you can use anti-bacterial wipes or hand rubs that are alcohol-based. Germs are primarily spread through contact of the mouth, nose, and eyes, therefore it is essential that you avoid touching these areas as much as possible.

Other Precautions to take Against HiN1 Infection

Keep up to date with local public health officials' recommendations regarding the H1N1 flu status in your area including any school closures that may affect your area and avoid public or crowded areas if at all possible during an outbreak. If you have travel plans, check the H1N1 status in the area you plan to be in and take any precautionary measures that may be necessary. The H1N1 flu is contagious from one day prior to experiencing the symptoms to as many as seven days after having the illness, therefore, it is essential in order to stop any further spreading of this virus that if you do become sick that you remain at home and away from others for a period of at least twenty four hours after you no longer have a fever.

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