Working Caregiver- Health
Here are some things about the Swine Flu
Best defense: Take your best shots at swine flu early
Here are some things all Americans, young and old should know about the swine flu epidemic.
1. Don't Panic.
We are not facing panic. Today, the swine flu, is not more threatening than a regular seasonal flu. Yet more American people are susceptible to the swine flu. The health officials are worried and because the swine flu virus has not faded away in the summer as most flu viruses do.
2. Virus, the swine flu, can be a tough one. Yet is tougher on some people than on others.
The groups that it is most threatened to are children under 2, pregnant women, people with health problems like asthma, diabetes and heart disease. Teens and young adults are also more vulnerable.
3. It is highly advised that we all wash our hands often and for a longer period of time.
Like any seasonal flu that can hit Americans hard, this influenza virus, swine flu, spreads through the coughs and sneezes of people who are sick. We must strongly encourage our children to wash with soap and water long enough to finish singing the alphabet song. You could use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
4. Get you children vaccinated.
The kids should be first in line for influenza virus, swine flu, shots. If vaccine supplies are limited: people 6 months to 24 years old, pregnant women, health care workers should be in that same line
Another priority are parents and caregivers of infants, people with high-risk medical conditions previously noted above.
5. Get your shots early in the flu season.
It is reported that millions of swine flu shots will be available by October. If you are in one of the priority groups, try to get your shot as early as possible. Check with your doctor or local or state health department about where to do this. Many schools should be able to provide the vaccination to children.
6. Immunity takes a while.
Immunity will not come till around Thanksgiving, even those first in line for shots. This Influenza virus vaccination will likely take two shots to provide protection. Then it can take a week or two after the last shot for the vaccine to take its full effect. People over 50 are urged to be among the first to get that shot.
7. Surrounded by swine flu.
If an outbreak of swine flu occurs in your area before you're vaccinated, be extra cautious. Stay away from public gathering places like malls, sports events and churches. Try to keep your distance from people in general. Keep washing those hands and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
8. You cannot catch the swine flu from barbecue.
Swine flu is not spread by handling meat, whether it's raw or cooked.
9. What if you get sick?
If you have other health problems or are pregnant and develop flu-like symptoms, call your doctor immediately. If you develop breathing problems (rapid breathing for kids), pain in your chest, constant vomiting or a fever that keeps rising, go to an emergency room. Most people, though, should just stay home and rest. Cough into your elbow or shoulder. Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever breaks. Fluids and pain relievers like Tylenol can help with achiness and fever.
SOURCE: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and The Associated Press.
