 The Palm Springs Police Department wants to remind the valley residents and visitors that the Novel Swine H1N1 Flu Virus is still active. The symptoms of Novel H1N1 flu virus are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. They include:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
As a preventative measure understand that the influenza virus is destroyed by several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap) and alcohol mixtures. They are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them and hand sanitizer dispensers can be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.
For more information, check out the Center for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ |
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