|
|
Winchester Hospital Urges Awareness, Prevention and Perspective Regarding Swine Flu
Winchester, Mass. – There has been a lot of attention in the media about Influenza A/H1N1, or swine flu.
Why is everyone talking about H1N1 flu?
H1N1 flu is a new or “novel” influenza virus that is spreading quickly. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the Pandemic Alert level to 5: Widespread Human Infection. Flu vaccine made last year does not work against this virus, and humans do not have immunity to this illness.
However, recent news reports about H1N1 flu are less alarming than initial reports from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). Officials urge continued close monitoring of the virus, but the DPH and CDC have modified many of their initial recommendations including testing protocols. In fact, because of the “relatively mild course” of the disease, testing should now only be performed on those with the most severe respiratory illness and those at highest risk of complications from influenza. Rapid flu diagnostic tests should not be performed on all individuals with mild illness.
Winchester Hospital is taking an active approach to preventing the spread of H1N1 flu by following prudent infection prevention strategies.
What steps can I take to protect myself and my family?
It is important to use common sense. Know the symptoms of influenza: sudden fever, aches and pains, headache, chills, sore throat, sudden dizziness, cough, head and lung congestion, fatigue and diarrhea/nausea. H1N1 flu cannot be transmitted by eating pork or pork products.
Precautions for all
Remember, you should take everyday actions to stay healthy.
- Eat right and get enough rest.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Avoid any person who is coughing, sneezing or has a respiratory illness.
- You shouldn’t go to work and children shouldn’t go to school with symptoms. CDC recommends staying home and limiting contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Wash hands with soap and water for 15 to 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer or wipes, especially when in public.
Winchester Hospital remains in contact with the DPH and will keep the public informed as new information becomes available.
About Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute
Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute is committed to helping community members take responsibility for their health and well-being by offering the education and resources that change lives. Established in 1996, the Community Health Institute now offers more than 30 programs and services throughout the year with offerings in disease management, childbirth, integrative therapies, fitness, yoga, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, CPR and first aid, weight management, nurse aide training and support groups. The institute is also home to two retail services: A Caring Place, which features wigs, bras, prostheses and head coverings for women living with cancer; and the Lactation Center Boutique, which offers the highest quality breastfeeding supplies and support. Unless otherwise indicated within the program’s description, for more information or to register, please call the Community Health Institute at (781) 756-4700 or visit www.winchesterhospital.org. |
|
|
