I'm concerned about the junk information I've been reading on blogs, FaceBook and Twitter regarding swine flu and pandemic events. I hope to address those issues with the following evidence based video and links. I'm also happy to report that the suspected case of swine flu in Philadelphia has been ruled out. Additionally, I've added a widget on my sidebar that will link you to evidence based information regarding the swine flu. Below is a 57 minute video from pandemicflu.gov designed to help people learn more about pandemic flu and what step to take to prepare for a pandemic event.
Via Philadelphia Dept of Public Health:
Good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Clean your hands.
- Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Practice other good health habits.
- Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
More evidence based information regarding swine flu can be found at CDC and PandemicFlu.gov; pandemic alert information can be found at World Health Organization (WHO); how to safely take care of a family member at home
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