Updates on H1N1 flu show less severity

  • Published
  • By Capt. Paul Conroy
  • 75th Aerospace Medical Squadron Public Health Flight commander
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that H1N1 influenza virus has been confirmed in 20 countries and 38 states, including one confirmed case in Utah. The CDC expects that more cases, more hospitalizations and possibly more deaths from this outbreak will occur over the coming days and weeks.

However, the severity of the illness is not as dire as originally feared. Some vital public health preventive measures, while prudent earlier in the outbreak, are no longer recommended. For example, the CDC is no longer advising school closure for a suspected or confirmed case of H1N1 and, in general, is not advising such action unless the magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism interferes with the school's ability to function.

But we must all remain vigilant. Follow these simple guidelines to prevent the spread of influenza:

· Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

· Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose with your hands. This is the single most important preventive action you can take.

· Avoid people with flu-like symptoms.

If you think you have H1N1 flu contact your health care provider. He or she will be able to determine if you need testing or treatment. To prevent spreading the virus if you are sick:

· Stay home from work or school.

· Cough and sneeze into disposable tissues.

· Wash your hands often with soap and water

· Disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as door knobs, remote controls, light switches and toilet handles. An effective disinfectant can be made using ? cup of household bleach and 1 gallon of cold water.

The 75th Medical Group continues to work with local, state and Department of Defense partners to minimize the impact of H1N1 influenza.

For further information regarding this outbreak, please contact the Hill Air Force Base Public Health Office at 777-1342, 586-9582, or visit the CDC Web site: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.