Avoid the Swine Flu

Three more probable cases have been reported in Utah. This time it's school children in Park City. They've closed all Park City schools for the rest of the week and into Monday.

In the past the greatest concern for flu infections has been for the oldest and youngest in our population. But this strain differs in that it seriously affects older children/ young adults as well. Everyone needs to take precautions to avoid spreading the infection.

I work in the healthcare industry, and we were given some common sense practices this week to help us stay healthy. These are good guidelines any time, but they bear repeating now more than ever.

Avoid close contact.

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 need to be in close contact with sick individuals it is prudent for you to wear an N-95 respirator or at minimum a surgical mask to help protect yourself from getting sick.

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. If you cannot stay home wear a surgical mask when going out in public. This will prevent others from becoming infected.

Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Ideally, you should cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve, but a tissue may also be used. Doing this may prevent those around you from getting sick.

Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing will help protect you from germs and protect others from getting yours.

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.