Influenza Update!

This page is dedicated to bringing you the latest in 2009 H1N1 flu information.

The 2009 H1N1 influenza may have reached its peak in many areas around the country. As this trend continues, more vaccine becomes available. With this in mind, please keep listening to your radio and TV about when the vaccine will be available in your area. Although there does seem to be s decline in cases, the virus is still out there and will likely be around for many more months.

You can take steps yourself to reduce the chances of catching this flu. First, you need to know what to look for:

This new strain of flu shows symptoms like:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Some people also have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.

If you or someone in your family shows these symptoms, you should contact you doctor before going to the emergency room. More often than not, he can help you get through this flu.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your arm.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water – especially after you cough and sneeze.  You can also use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth – that’s how germs are spread.

If you get sick – stay home from work or school and limit your contact with other people to avoid infecting them. Parents should follow these same recommendations for their children. 

For additional information, go to:
http://www.cookcountypublichealth.org/swine_flu