10 Things You Should Know About The H1N1 Virus This Season

Swine Flu Update > 10 Things You Should Know About The H1N1 Virus This Season

Here you will find updated information about the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) as we’re heading into the fall and flu season of 2009.

The global swine flu epidemic has sickened more than 1 million Americans and about 500 people have succumbed to it since it first emerged last April. Since it has spread worldwide, tens of thousands have been infected and nearly 2,000 have died.

As this summer is winding down, the virus has surprisingly taken a stronghold in the United States, refusing to fade away as flu viruses normally do. Health officials are now predicting a surge of cases this fall season, perhaps being more substantially noticeable in the very near future as schools have reopened for the new school year.

A panel of experts from a recent White House report  suggests that from 30% to 50% of the population could catch swine flu during the course of this pandemic and that from 30,000 to 90,000 could possibly die.

So how worried should you be and how do you prepare?

To help consolidate the mass amount of information being released by the panel of experts in Washington DC along with the CDC (Center For Disease Control), here are 10 things you should know to be more knowledgeable or to put it another way, “flu-savvy”.

(1) – There is NO cause for panic –

So far, swine flu isn’t much more threatening than regular seasonal flu. During the few months of this new flu’s existence, hospitalizations and deaths from it seem to be lower than the average in comparison to seasonal flu, and the virus hasn’t dramatically mutated. That’s what health officials have observed in the Southern Hemisphere where flu season is now winding down. Still, more people are susceptible to swine flu and American health officials are worried because it took such a firm grasp here during the summer….. a time of year the flu usually dissipates.

(2) – The virus will be tougher on selective groups –

Swine flu is more of a threat to certain groups:

• children under 2
• pregnant women
• people afflicted with health problems like asthma, diabetes and heart disease

Teens and young adults are also more vulnerable to swine flu.

Ordinary, seasonal flu hits older people the hardest, but not in this case with the swine flu. Scientists think older people may have built up some immunity to it from exposure over the years to viruses similar to swine flu.

(3) – Wash your hands longer and more frequently –

Just like with seasonal flu, Swine Flu spreads through the coughs and sneezes of people who are sick. You should emphasize to children that they should wash with soap and water long enough to finish singing the alphabet song, “Now I know my ABC’s…”

It is also highly recommended to use alcohol-based hand sanitizers on a regular basis.

(4) – Get the kids and most ‘at-risk’ groups vaccinated –

These groups should be first in line for swine flu shots, especially if vaccine supplies are limited:

• Young people from 6 months to 24 years old
• Pregnant women
• People affected with those high-risk medical conditions previously noted.
  Also a priority:
• Health care workers.
• Parents and caregivers of infants

(5) – Act quickly and get your shots early –

Millions of swine flu shots should be available by mid-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 children should be able to get vaccinated at school. You can expect permission forms to be sent home in advance.

(6) – Immunity takes awhile –

Even those first in line for shots won’t have immunity until around Thanksgiving. That’s because it’s more than likely going to take two shots… given three weeks apart… to provide protection. And it takes a week or two after the last shot for the vaccine to take full effect. The regular seasonal flu shot should be widely available in September.

People over 50 are urged to be among the first to get that shot.

(7) – Vaccines are being tested –

Health officials presume the swine flu vaccine is safe and effective, but they’re testing it to make sure. The federal government has begun studies in eight cities across the country to assess its effectiveness and figure out the best dose. Vaccine makers are doing their own tests as well.

(8) – If you’re surrounded by swine flu, then what? –

If an outbreak of swine flu hits your area before you’re vaccinated… be extra cautious!

• In general, try to keep your distance from people — Stay away from public gathering places like malls, sports events, concerts, churches, crowded movie theaters, crowded restaurants, etc.

• Keep washing those hands with soap and water (remember the sanitizer also) and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.

(9) – What if you get sick? –

• If you have other health problems or are pregnant and develop flu-like symptoms, call your doctor right away. You may be prescribed Tamiflu or Relenza. These drugs can reduce the severity of swine flu if taken right after symptoms start.

• 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 should just stay home and get some 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 aches and fever.
• Always check with a doctor before giving children any medicines. Adult cold and flu remedies are not meant for them.

(10) – No swine flu from barbecue –

You can’t catch swine flu from pork – or poultry either (even though it recently turned up in some turkeys in Chile).

Swine flu is not spread by handling meat, whether it’s raw or cooked.

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Here are a few recent posts from this blog related to this important topic:

• How To Reduce Your Risk of Getting The Flu

• Key Facts About Swine Flu – H1N1 Virus

• Proper Hand Washing Tips To Prevent Infection

• Tamiflu – What You Need To Know

• Top Immunity Boosting Foods

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For any additional information, go to the CDC website(s) listed below:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/

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Home Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

Fire safety and knowing what to do ahead of time can make all the difference in the world. Below you will find a handy reminder of Home Fire Prevention and Safety Tips and what you should do to help eliminate fire hazards as well as what to do in the event that a fire does breaks out:

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Additional related posts about fire safety and preparation:

• Are You & Your Home Prepared In Case of Wildfire

• Steps You Can Take To Be Fire Safe At Home

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Wildfire Dangers: What You Can Do To Reduce The Risk

With temperatures on the rise once more, one thing becomes abundantly clear to those living in (dry, wooded, open-ridge gusty wind areas) fire-prone areas, especially in California and the other Western States —> Wildfire season isn’t limited to just summer and fall any more.  We’ve all seen in the news (even more-so over the last several years) the damage and devastation caused by wildfires – many caused by lightning strikes – but even more caused by human carelessness – including but not limited to campfires, fireworks, automotive, lawnmowers, dry timber and brush around homes and wooden structures, improper storage of flammable  substances, etc. Homeowners need to be ever vigilant and need to take simple steps to protect their homes and neighborhoods against wildfires.

Basic Steps YOU Can Take AHEAD of Time

• Check the area around your home for any fire hazards. Place woodpiles and propane tanks at least 30 feet away from the home. Cover chimneys or stovepipe outlets with a non-flammable screen of 1/2 inch or smaller mesh.

• Clear the space around your home. Clear brush areas from 100 to 200 feet (500 feet on sheer slopes is recommended as flames will shoot up faster). This can reduce the risk of fire by 50 percent. It will also provide room for firefighters to battle the blaze. Also be sure to remove dead leaves and brush from around your home and on the roof and gutters on a regular basis.

• Landscape the area around your home with fire-resistant plants. For example, ice plants or citrus trees withstand high temperatures and do not support open flames when ignited. Consult a nursery or your local fire department about all types of fire-retardant plans. Also place native shrubs and trees at least 10 feet apart, and prune branches on trees taller than 18 feet within six feet of the ground.

• Use non-combustible building materials. A non-combustible or fire-resistant shingle roof can prevent against flaming wood shingles or other debris carried by the wind. Also seal the eaves under your roof to prevent flying embers from lodging on your home. Decking should be concrete, tile or protected with fire-resistant coating. Install fire-resistant shutters or shades instead of drapes that can easily catch on fire.

• Have an adequate water supply handy for fire fighting. You can do a number of things such as installing a water tank and water pump, buying a pool pump or storing extra trash cans filled with water. You may also consider buying a fire hose as regular garden hoses may not be enough to battle high blazes or able to withstand extreme temperatures.

• Make sure there are accessible roads to your home. Your driveway should be at least 15 feet wide and have enough turnaround space for emergency vehicles.

Steps You Can Take To Be Fire Safe At Home

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Steps You Can Take To Be Fire Safe At Home

Your first as well as most effective defense against wildfire is to create a fire safe landscape of at least 30-to-100 feet perimeter around your home. You can do this by removing flammable vegetation, spacing trees and shrubs at least 10 feet apart, clearing away dead leaves on your roof, as well as your rain gutters, and dry brush around your home.

In addition to creating a defensible space, you may want to consider the plants and trees in your garden as a type of fire defense. Junipers and eucalyptus trees, commonly used around homes, are extremely flammable. On the other hand, rose geraniums, ice plants and white rockrose withstood high temperatures for prolonged periods without igniting.

Check with your fire department or local nursery to determine which fire-resistive plants are adapted to the climate in your area. In general, fire-resistive plants grow close to the ground, have a low sap or resin content, grow without accumulating dead branches, needles or leaves and are easily maintained and pruned.

Steps You Can Take To Be Fire Safe

If a fire does threaten your home, the first few minutes are the most critical for saving it. The following steps give firefighters a better chance of finding and protecting your home.

• Ensure that street signs and home address are clearly visible.
• Be sure that the road access can accommodate large emergency vehicles. All roads should have turnaround areas large enough for fire equipment.
• If you have a swimming pool, be prepared to use it as a fire-fighting tool by purchasing and learning how to use a pool pump.

Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your house because it can easily catch fire from the wind-blown sparks of a wildfire. Build or re-roof with fire resistive or noncombustible materials. Your local fire department can provide specific roofing guidelines in your area.

In addition to ensuring that the outside of your home is fire safe, it’s important to take steps inside as well. More than 50 percent of fatal residential fires occur at night when people are sleeping. Smoke detectors have saved many lives, and could save yours. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and position them on the ceiling just outside each bedroom.

Plan Ahead

Also, plan and practice an escape route with all family members. Fire can spread very rapidly. Even with an early warning from smoke detectors, escaping a fire can be difficult. The following steps can help you plan your escape:

• Draw a floor plan of your home and mark all possible escape routes.
• Prepare a list of valuables to take with you in an emergency.
• Remind everyone to close doors behind them as they evacuate the house to slow down the spread of fire, smoke and heat.
• Decide on an outside meeting place to gather your family together and to make sure everyone is out and accounted for.
• Conduct regular home fire drills. You may be blinded or hampered by smoke, so try practicing your escape plan with your eyes closed.

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Be on the lookout for anything that could start a fire.

Watch out for:

• Matches and lighters
• Old and worn-out electrical cords
• Too many cords in a wall socket
• Candles burning in an empty room
• Clothes and blankets near space heaters and on hot lamps

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Here are additional posts from this site regarding FIRE SAFETY:

Fire Safety At Home – Reminder Chart

Wildfire Dangers: What You Can Do To Reduce The Risk

Proper Hand Washing Tips To Prevent Infection

Hand washing is a simple habit that can help keep you healthy. Learn the benefits of good hand hygiene, when to wash your hands and how to clean them properly.

Hand washing is a simple habit, something most people do without thinking. Yet hand washing, when done properly, is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. This simple habit requires only soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer — a cleanser that doesn’t require water.

Do you know the benefits of good hand hygiene and when and how to wash your hands properly?

The Dangers of Not Washing Your Hands

Despite the proven health benefits of hand washing, many people don’t practice this habit as often as they should — even after using the toilet. Throughout the day you accumulate germs on your hands from a variety of sources, such as direct contact with people, contaminated surfaces, foods, even animals and animal waste. If you don’t wash your hands frequently enough, you can infect yourself with these germs by touching your eyes, nose or mouth. And you can spread these germs to others by touching them or by touching surfaces that they also touch, such as doorknobs.

Infectious diseases that are commonly spread through hand-to-hand contact include the common cold, flu and several gastrointestinal disorders, such as infectious diarrhea. While most people will get over a cold, the flu can be much more serious. Some people with the flu, particularly older adults and people with chronic medical problems, can develop pneumonia.

Inadequate hand hygiene also contributes to food-related illnesses, such as salmonella and E. coli infection.

Proper Hand-Washing Techniques

Good hand-washing techniques include washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Antimicrobial wipes or towelettes are just as effective as soap and water in cleaning your hands but aren’t as good as alcohol-based sanitizers.

Antibacterial soaps have become increasingly popular in recent years.However, these soaps are no more effective at killing germs than is regular soap. Using antibacterial soaps may lead to the development of bacteria that are resistant to the products’ antimicrobial agents — making it even harder to kill these germs in the future. In general, regular soap is fine. The combination of scrubbing your hands with soap — antibacterial or not — and rinsing them with water loosens and removes bacteria from your hands.

Proper Hand Washing with Soap and Water

Follow these instructions for washing with soap and water:

1. Wet your hands thoroughly with warm, running water.
2. Apply liquid soap or use clean bar soap. Lather well.
3. Rub your hands vigorously together for at least 15 to 20 seconds.
4. Scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
5. Rinse well.
6. Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel.
7. Use a towel to turn off the faucet.

Proper Use of an Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers — which don’t require water — are an excellent alternative to hand washing, particularly when soap and water aren’t available. They’re actually more effective than soap and water in killing bacteria and viruses that cause disease. Commercially prepared hand sanitizers contain ingredients that help prevent skin dryness. Using these products can result in less skin dryness and irritation than hand washing.

Not all hand sanitizers are created equal, though. Some “waterless” hand sanitizers don’t contain alcohol. Use only the alcohol-based products.

The CDC recommends choosing products that contain at least 60 percent alcohol.

Simply …..

1. Apply about 1/2 teaspoon of the product to the palm of your hand.
2. Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces of your hands, until they’re dry.

If your hands are visibly dirty, however, wash with soap and water, if available, rather than a sanitizer.

When should you wash your hands?

Although it’s impossible to keep your bare hands germ-free, there are times when it’s critical to wash your hands to limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes.

Always wash your hands …..

• After using the toilet
• After changing a diaper + wash the diaper-wearer’s hands, too
• After touching animals or animal waste
• Before and after preparing food, especially before and immediately after handling raw meat, poultry or fish
• Before eating
• After blowing your nose
• After coughing or sneezing into your hands
• Before and after treating wounds or cuts
• Before and after touching a sick or injured person
• After handling garbage
• Before inserting or removing contact lenses
• When using public restrooms, such as those in gas stations, airports, train stations, bus stations and restaurants.

Hand washing doesn’t take much time or effort, but it offers great rewards in terms of preventing illness. Adopting this simple habit can play a major role in protecting your health.

Just a reminder …..

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Recent posts from this blog related to this post:

• 10 Things You Should Know About The H1N1 Virus This Season

• How To Reduce Your Risk of Getting The Flu

• Key Facts About Swine Flu – H1N1 Virus

• Tamiflu – What You Need To Know