Tips on reducing your risk - and the spread - of the H1N1 virus

What You Can Do To Stay Healthy & Reduce the Spread of the Virus

• 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;
• Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze, dispose of the tissue after one use and wash your hands (if you do not have a tissue, cough/sneeze into the upper sleeve of your shirt);
• Avoid close contact with others who are sick (i.e., within 6 feet);
• Eat healthy, exercise regularly and get adequate rest to support a healthy immune system;
• Stay home if you get sick and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them, except to seek medical attention;
• Seek immediate medical advice for pregnant women, young children or those who have underlying health conditions, since they are at greater risk for complications; and,
• Immediately notify your instructors if you are experiencing/exhibiting flu-like symptoms or if you are diagnosed with H1N1.

What are the Symptoms of the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu?)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms are very similar to the “regular” flu.

• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Body Aches
• Upper respiratory tract symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose)
• Unusual Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

The CDC reports that illnesses among persons infected with H1N1 flu virus have mostly been treated at home, but some cases have been hospitalized and deaths have been reported. Like the seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. It is anticipated that many more cases, including cases that require hospitalizations and some that result in death, will occur. Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases are expected in the coming days and weeks.

STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE H1N1 VIRUS

• www.epi.state.nc.us
• CDC.gov
• pandemicflu.gov
• CDC Guidance and Homecare Directions (for guidance from physicians to patients/parents for home care)