Swine Flu: Advice For Staying Healthy

Main Category: Swine Flu
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS;  Respiratory / Asthma;  Public Health
Article Date: 29 Apr 2009 - 7:00 PDT

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Over 64 cases of the swine flu are confirmed in the U.S. and the government has declared a public health emergency. The swine flu is a contagious respiratory disease that normally affects pigs but can affect humans. The swine flu symptoms are exactly the same as that of the seasonal flu: coughing, aches, fever, runny nose and sometimes sore throat, nausea and vomiting.

Dr. Timothy Lyman , Medical Director of Resurrection's Immediate Care Centers says, "The good news is that some of the current anti-flu medications (Tamiflu, Relenza) can be used for treatment or prevention of symptoms. These medications are available through your local physician or if you don't have one through Resurrection Immediate Care Centers."

In response to the panic, Resurrection Health Care offers tips from on how to keep safe during the swine flu epidemic:

- Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals.
- Carry waterless hand sanitizer with you
- Do not drink from the same cups or share utensils
- If possible avoid crowded places including travel on trains and planes
- A distance of at least 3 feet is suggested
- Cough and sneeze into a tissue that you throw away
- Clean surfaces with 70% Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or 5% Lysol or 10% bleach
- Children, the elderly, & immune compromised should take extra precautions
- If you have flu symptoms, like a fever with a cough, sore throat, or vomiting, and you have traveled to Mexico in the past seven days, call your doctor. A physician can determine whether you need to see a doctor to treat your flu symptoms.

Lyman adds, "Flu is spread by droplets from respiratory secretions, usually from coughing or sneezing. That's why there is so much emphasis on anyone with a cough wearing a mask. It is a preventative measure."

Dr. Lyman is available for interview on the subject of swine flu-contact Kristy Lockhart, Resurrection Health Care, 773-951-5282.

Dr. Timothy Lyman serves as the Medical Director of the Resurrection Health Care's Immediate Care and WorkPlus Occupational Health Centers. He received his medical degree, as well as completed his internship and residency programs in Internal Medicine from The University of Illinois, Chicago.

Source
Resurrection Health Care

Further information on Swine Flu

• See a Map Of H1N1 Outbreaks
• See our Mexico Swine Flu Blog

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• References
• Citations