Apr. 30, 2009 by Lisa Currie
| According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), H1N1 influenza A (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Cases of human transmission have been documented by the CDC and the current outbreak is being closely monitored internationally. Please review the links below to educate yourself about swine flu, its prevention, and available resources.
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The CDC recommends the following prevention guidelines:
- Stay informed. The most up to date and authoritative website is www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ which will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
- Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- 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. The current recommendation is that if you have a fever and cough or sore throat you stay home for 7 days or until symptoms have resolved for 24 hours, whichever is longer. If you have these symptoms and have traveled to an affected area you should contact your health care provider by telephone.
- 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 a communication plan and a plan regarding where to go in the event of illness.
WesWELL also suggests that to enhance your ability to ward off infection, try to stay in good general health.
- Get plenty of sleep
- Be physically active
- Manage your stress
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food
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Wesleyan Resources
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Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
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World Health Organization
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Connecticut Resources
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Maps
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- Click here for a map of documented cases at US institutions of higher education.
- Click here for an informal map of documented cases worldwide.
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Posted in SwineFlu
