April 27: Responding to the Swine Flu Virus
April 27, 2009
Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have beenidentified in the United States—including at least one case in Ohio.The virus is contagious and spreads from human to human. Ongoinginvestigations will attempt to determine the source of the infection.
For information, visit the Centers for Disease Control web site: www.cdc.gov .
CDC is working closely with health officials in Ohio and otherstates, as well as internationally. Lab testing has found the swine fluvirus susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir andzanamivir and has issued interim guidance for the use of these drugs toprevent and treat infection.
CDC has prepared guidance on how to care for people who are sickand the use of face masks in a community setting where spread of thisparticular swine flu virus has been detected. This is a rapidlyevolving situation and CDC will provide new information as it becomesavailable.
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy:
If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
If you develop an illness with fever and respiratory symptoms, such ascough and runny nose, and possibly other symptoms, such as body aches,nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, immediately contact your health careprovider, who will determine whether influenza testing is needed.
For information, visit the Centers for Disease Control web site: www.cdc.gov .
CDC is working closely with health officials in Ohio and otherstates, as well as internationally. Lab testing has found the swine fluvirus susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir andzanamivir and has issued interim guidance for the use of these drugs toprevent and treat infection.
CDC has prepared guidance on how to care for people who are sickand the use of face masks in a community setting where spread of thisparticular swine flu virus has been detected. This is a rapidlyevolving situation and CDC will provide new information as it becomesavailable.
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy:
- 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
If you develop an illness with fever and respiratory symptoms, such ascough and runny nose, and possibly other symptoms, such as body aches,nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, immediately contact your health careprovider, who will determine whether influenza testing is needed.