Extension
Connection
Extension
Connection
Preventing Influenza A (H1N1)
By Janet Hackert, Nutrition Specialist
As of May 3, 2009, there have been 226 laboratory confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of these, one Missouri woman from Platte County had contracted the disease as of May 1st. This represents a lot of sick people, but the spread of this disease, like other forms of the flu, can be prevented or reduced by good hygiene.
As of yet, there is no vaccine for this strain. The seasonal influenza vaccine is a mix to prevent the strains most likely to go around during an upcoming flu season. Since Influenza A (H1N1) is a new strain, the seasonal vaccine does not prevent this one.
Infection spreads person to person by someone who’s infected coughing or sneezing on someone else. It can also spread by someone touching an infected surface, then touching their mouth or nose. So wash hands thoroughly and often to prevent the spread of this and other common diseases. This means using warm water, lathering and scrubbing with soap for a full 20 seconds, rinsing and drying hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use a paper towel to turn off water to prevent recontaminating hands on the germy faucet. Keep in mind that 20 seconds may be longer than most of us think. Time it once: use a helpful time-keeper like singing the ABC’s or another short song, and see just how long 20 seconds really is! Then use that time-keeper to help you remember to wash hands long enough each time.
There are other steps one can take to reduce the likelihood of catching the latest flu. The Extension Disaster Education Network website has these suggestions: “Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food for general good health.”
(Written May 4, 2009)
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Extension Connection Barb Ubben, Web Manager harrisonco@missouri.edu Last revised: 05/25/04 |