The CDC has now documented 403 cases of the H1N1 flu in the United States. One death has been reported in Texas with many more cases and deaths anticipated to rise in the coming months. Just like any other influenza virus (flu), it is airborne, but anyone can catch it by contact as well. If you are under the age of 5 or over the age of 65 or are pregnant you are at higher risk for infection.
Some of the symptoms of the H1N1 virus can include: fever, chills, headache, upper respiratory tract symptoms (cough, sore throat, rhinorrhea, shortness of breath), myalgias, arthralgias, fatigue, vomiting, or diarrhea.
If you feel you may have similar symptoms, please seek a health care provider for further testing. Below are some general guidelines the CDC have published to help you stay healthy:
- Stay informed. Please visit, http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
- Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
2. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
3. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
5. Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. - Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
- Find healthy ways to deal with stress and anxiety.
- Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information.
