Protecting yourself from getting the "swine flu" virus is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the illness. Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu, pig flu and sometimes, the swine) is an infection by any one of several types of swine influenza virus. Swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is endemic in pigs.
• Swine influenza virus is common throughout pig populations worldwide.
• Transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always lead to human influenza, often resulting only in the production of antibodies in the blood. If transmission does cause human influenza, it is called zoonotic swine flu.
• People with regular exposure to pigs are at increased risk of swine flu infection.
• The meat of an infected animal poses no risk of infection when properly cooked.
• Articles often discuss protection by coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow. That will not keep YOU from getting the virus, although it would be helpful for others.
• Protecting yourself involves several steps that are easy, but require some positive action on your part.
1. PROTECT yourself when you are out. Do not set your purse, wallet, or other items on counters or floors. Do not sit on public benches or chairs unless necessary. Carry antiseptic wipes and wipe your hands as soon as you get into your car after being among people. Do not get close to others if you can avoid it.
2. PROTECT yourself when you come in. When you come in from being around others, remove your shoes at the door. Wash your hands and arms with soap and water. Do not set items you purchased or your purse in the kitchen. This influenza virus can survive from two to eight hours after being deposited on a surface.
3. PROTECT yourself out or in. Do not touch your face, and particularly your eyes and mouth, as many viruses are transmitted from hands. Bathe daily and if you have been around someone with the virus, change your clothing.
4. PROTECT your family. Clean your kitchen and bathroom counters and sinks regularly. Products that will kill the H1N1 virus are alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, heat, iodophors, some soaps and chlorine.
5. PROTECT others and take care of yourself. If you believe you have the H1N1 virus, stay home until you know you do not. Symptoms are typical of seasonal influenza, with sometimes added severity and diarrhea and vomiting. If you believe you have H1N1 Virus and if you are in an at-risk category, contact your physician for Tamiflu or one of the anti-viral prescription medications. Otherwise, it is recommended that you take care of yourself at home. See Resources below for other articles about H1N1 Virus or Swine Flu for more information on caring for yourself and family.
TIPS & WARNINGS
1. ALWAYS take a fever very seriously if you have had a valve replacement. It could mean endocarditis, so call your heart doctor.
2. The quick test for H1N1 can register a false negative, so request the longer test if you are unsure of what is causing your fever.
3. Make sure your heart surgeon becomes involved in all diagnosis of any illness you have that might involve your heart.
4. Make sure you always pre-medicate with an antibiotic prescribed by your doctor before any dental work.
Remember that an infected person can be contagious for up to ten days. We often write about medical issues for the consumer. See Resources below for more articles about Swine Flu and other medical concerns. This is not medical advice, but gives guidelines from the CDC and practical advice about virus and infectious disease. Contact your physician for medical advice.
• copyright 2009 Paloma Home Health Agency Inc.
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