Now that the first case of H1N1 flue has been diagnosed in Jackson County, residents are wise to not panic and review how to diminish your chance of contracting what many call “Swine Flu”.
Using the resources of the Centers for Disease Control, the IAIC is pleased to provide these and other resources so that families and individuals can protect themselves during an H1N1 outbreak.
•Store a two-week supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and other disasters.
•Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home.
•Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
•Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.
•Another item to have handy is an emergency contact list. You carry one in your wallet, your car‚s glove compartment, and keep one of the fridge door.
You can download the full list of items to have on hand for an extended stay at home by visiting: http://www.flu.gov/plan/individual/checklist.html
One of the easiest ways to avoid the flu is to get a flu shot and practice these prevention tips to limit the spread of germs and prevent infection:
•Teach your children to wash hands frequently with soap and water, and model the correct behavior.
•Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and be sure to model that behavior.
•Teach your children to stay away from others as much as possible if they are sick. Stay home from work and school if sick.
