Right now, we understand you may be concerned about the H1N1 Influenza virus (“Swine Flu”). Here is updated information on the recent outbreak, and how to protect yourself and your family.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) are closely watching the recent outbreak of influenza in Mexico, some U.S. States and other parts of the world. This outbreak of influenza is caused by a new strain of the H1N1 Influenza A virus, previously known as the “swine flu”. While the influenza in Mexico has caused some severe illness, the cases in the United States have been much more mild.
Download the latest information from the American Red Cross:
Preparing for a Swine Flu (H1N1) Pandemic
Seasonal Flu Checklist
Seasonal Flu Checklist Espanol
Click Here for information on Pandemic Flu.
Symptoms:
According to the CDC, “The symptoms of [H1N1 Influenza A] swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with [H1N1 Influenza A] swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.”
Protect and Prevent:
The CDC suggests several ways to stay healthy:
- Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
- Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
- Develop a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and other essential supplies.
It is important to stay informed. This website is updated regularly. For up-to-date information on the status of the influenza, please click on the links below:
The Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles can come talk to you and your group about the flu and other emergency situations. We do this for free through the generosity of the American people. Please contact the Community Disaster Education program to schedule a presentation.
Want to help your kids stay healthy? Scrubby Bear can teach them how! Click here to get hand washing tips and other information from Scrubby Bear.
Tags: CDE, Community Disaster Education, disaster, emergency, flu, H1N1, influenza, preparedness, swine flu
