H1N1 Influenza prevention and treatment tip

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Lambert IAP --  Stay Healthy
These steps may help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses such as the flu:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze--throw the tissue away immediately after you use it.

· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If you are not near water, use an alcohol-based (60-95%) hand cleaner.

· Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

· If you get the flu, stay home from work, school, and social gatherings. In this way you will help prevent others from catching your illness.

· Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs often spread this way.

Stay Informed

· Knowing the facts is the best preparation. Identify sources you can count on for reliable information. If a pandemic occurs, having accurate and reliable information will be critical.

· Reliable, accurate, and timely information is available at www.pandemicflu.gov.

· Another source for information on pandemic influenza is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Hotline at: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). This line is available in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

· Look for information on your local and state government Web sites. Links are available to each state department of public health at http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/tab2.html#stateinfo. 

· Listen to local and national radio, watch news reports on television, and read your newspaper and other sources of printed and web-based information. 

·  Talk to your local health care providers and public health officials.