How would I know if someone in my family has H1N1 influenza?
Due to global mobility it is inevitable that H1N1 influenza (the new strain of influenza known as swine flu) will come to, and eventually spread in Egypt. The good news is that despite early fears, doctors are finding this virus, in its current form, causes a mild to moderate illness in healthy people. The CDC reports that in most people symptoms are similar to that of regular flu: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea. Young children may not have typical symptoms, but may have difficulty breathing and low activity. Young children, pregnant women, those with chronic medical conditions, and the elderly are more likely to experience more severe illness.
For more information on how to prevent influenza or how to care for someone who is sick, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) www.cdc.gov or World Health Organization (WHO) www.who.int .
How can I prevent getting influenza?
· Cold and flu viruses can live on skin and other surfaces for several hours so hand washing is an essential and effective way to prevent infection. Model and teach your children about hand washing.
How to Wash Your Hands: Wet hands with water and soap, and rub together for 15-30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly, and dry with a disposable towel. Alcohol-based hand rubs are a good alternative for disinfecting hands if water is not available. Hands should be washed before preparing food and eating, and after going to the bathroom, handling garbage or dirty laundry, touching animals or pets, and coughing, nose blowing or sneezing.
· Sneezing/coughing into your sleeve (at the inner elbow) will contain sprays of secretions without contaminating your hands. When using tissues to cover or wipe the nose discard promptly and wash hands immediately.
· Clean countertops, doorknobs and other surfaces with a household cleaner that kills viruses or a solution of 1 part Clorox to 10 parts water.
· Limit contact with those who are ill. While this is not always possible, touching the eyes, nose, or mouth after direct contact should be avoided. Keep young children with a cold home from nursery/school to prevent spreading it to others.
· Dress warmly in layers in the cooler months, including socks and hats to help prevent the body being stressed by cold temperatures.
· Maintain good nutrition with a variety of foods from all the food groups including nine servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables to boost the immune system
What do I do if someone in my family is sick?
The CDC suggests that unless they need medical attention keep those who are sick at home. Anyone with a fever should not travel or attend work, school, daycare, or social events. Ensure they drink a lot of fluids (juice, water, Rehydran). Keep them comfortable - rest is important.
If someone in your home is sick, keep him or her away from those who are well and allocate just one person to care for the sick person. The CDC and American Red Cross have detailed and helpful information on their websites about taking care of a sick person in your home, medications to lessen the symptoms of flu, steps to decrease the spread of flu in your home, and when to seek medical care. If you feel the sick person needs medical attention call ahead to inform the doctor/clinic that you are coming. Have the sick person wear a face mask (available at pharmacies).
What I can do to be prepared?
The current outbreak of a new strain of influenza virus (swine flu) serves as a reminder and a motivation to always be prepared for the unexpected. The American Red Cross suggests preparing for pandemic influenza by:
Stocking Up: Stock up on nonperishable foods, bottled water, medicine, health supplies and other necessities. A two-week supply of food and a three-day supply of water are recommended.
Practicing Good Health Habits:Flu viruses spread from person to person mainly through coughing or sneezing, and when a person touches something that is contaminated with the virus and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently. Try not to touch your face with your hands. Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Make sure you regularly sanitize surfaces such as counter tops, phones, and door knobs. Stay at least six feet away from people who are sick. Anyone who is sick should stay at home and away from other people until they are better. If the H1N1 flu occurs in your community, stay away from shopping malls, movie theaters, and other places were there are groups of people.
Planning Ahead: Consider what you would do if you could not go to work, schools were cancelled for several weeks, a family member became sick and needed care, or you needed to leave the country. Make sure your family knows your plan. Have your important documents and cash ready.
Staying Informed: Keep plugged-in to: your embassy and employer; local and international media; and public health officials like the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, the World Health Organization, and the Red Cross.