Swine Flu, Influenza A (H1N1) Prevention

Ahh.. Choo..... *sneeze*

Nowadays, sneezing is such a sensitive thing. People are so weary of others who are sneezing around them... Well who can blame them right? With the Influenza A (H1N1)going around.

I was in a plane back last week and out of a sudden felt some itch on my nose and sneezed out loud... Covering my nose and mouth... Then the lady in the row in-front to my diagonal right turn around with a look of unease and suspicion.... ... Guess we will get this sort of reaction from people all around in these period.

So some tips lifted off Health Promotion Board.

Prevention

Since the illness occurs through direct contact with infectious material and respiratory secretions, it is important to practise good personal hygiene. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

1. Cover Your Nose and Mouth

   • With a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose the tissue properly in the trash after use.
     
     

2. Wash Your Hands

   • Regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
   • Before and after preparing food
   • After going to the toilet
   • Before and after eating
   • After blowing your nose
   • After using your hand when coughing or sneezing
     
     

3. Contain the Spread of Flu

   • Use a serving spoon when sharing food from a common dish.
   • Do not share personal items such as toothbrushes and towels.
   • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
   • If you are sick, avoid crowded areas and wear surgical mask.
   • Stay at home and do not go to work or school if ill.
   • See your family doctor if you have fever and flu like symptoms and had recent travel to areas with cases of Influenza A (H1N1)
     
     

4. Build Up Your Immunity

   • If you are a smoker, quit smoking. It harms you and your family.
   • Take more fruit and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are the most power-packed combination of nutrients your body needs for good health.
   • Engage in 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 5 or more days a week.
   • Learn to relax and rest.
     
     

5. Keep Your Environment Clean

   • Do not throw leftover food on the floor or in the open.
   • Do not leave food in common areas for stray animals.
   • Do not spit on the floor and common areas.
   • Throw used masks, tissue or litter into rubbish bins.

Source