More Americans
young and old may need to protect themselves
this flu season as fears continue to spread beyond the common virus to new variations, such as swine flu (aka H1N1 virus).
So in addition to a regular seasonal flu shot, doctors will offer a two-dose shot to protect against the H1N1 virus a strain already responsible
for hundreds of deaths, and gastrointestinal symptoms in addition to the more common flu symptoms.
How is Novel H1N1 different than the seasonal flu?
Novel H1N1 is a novel virus,
meaning humans, until recently, have never been
infected with this virus. The virus changed in a way that enabled it to go from infecting only animals to infecting humans as well. Novel viruses are
dangerous because our immune systems have no previous experience battling them. Although the seasonal flu is most dangerous to those with weak immune
systems, such as the very young and the elderly, the Novel H1N1 virus appears to be a threat to healthy, young adults. Novel H1N1 viruses are not
spread by food. You cannot get infected with Novel H1N1 virus from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products
is safe.
What can I do to prevent getting sick?
- Wash your hands with soap and hot water to get rid of germs and to prevent the spread of disease. If you do not have soap and water, use a waterless hand gel with an alcohol base of at least 60%.
- Avoid kissing or shaking hands with people if you suspect an illness,
and do not share food, drinks or utensils. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Get the seasonal flu vaccine, and if you are in a risk group for Novel
H1N1, get that vaccine when it becomes available. - Use CloSYS toothpaste and mouth rinse at least twice per day, and rinse more often (3-4 times) if a sore throat arises. Keeping the mouth healthy is vital to good overall health.
- Rinse your toothbrush often with CloSYS rinse at least once per week and do not reuse your toothbrush if you become sick.
Starting Early
Common flu shots are available before the regular flu season, which starts in October, so it's possible to get protected from the virus early. However, the vaccine may wear off in six months, some health officials say. So if you opt to get your flu shot soon, your doctor may recommend that you get a booster shot sometime in the winter.
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