Subject: Swine Flu Information
Content: I’m posting this important information about the Swine Flu (A/H1N1) just in case you haven’t heard about it at your school, work, or the media: By now, I’m sure that you have heard about the new strain of swine flu virus that is floating around the world. As of 4 May 2009, 21 countries have officially reported 1085 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection. This flu, like all types of flu, is very serious and should not be taken lightly. The best thing to do, however, is not to panic, or overreact, but just take some normal precautions for prevention. Share this important information with your family and friends: Note: To put everything in perspective, it's important to keep in mind that in an average flu season -- and we’re talking about the normal winter flu season -- about 36,000 people die from the flu. Yes, that's a huge number and most people are shocked when they hear this fact. But, it helps drive home a very important point. All types of flu are very serious and should not be taken lightly. What is swine flu? It’s a new type of swine flu virus (H1N1) that combines genetic material from pigs, birds and humans in a way researchers have not seen before. Unlike typical swine flu, it is spreading person-to-person, and it’s happening among people who haven’t had any contact with pigs. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through tiny particles in the air or by direct contact. Is swine flu treatable? Yes, this swine flu is treatable (and absolutely survivable). There are 2 antiviral drugs that work to combat this flu – Tamiflu & Relenza. Be alert – recognize the symptoms and get help. Swine flu symptoms are similar to regular flu: Fever, headache, sore throat, cough, runny nose, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and feeling unenergetic. If you or the kids don’t feel well, seek medical attention. Keep in mind, that your doctor will not be able to determine whether you have swine flu, but he will take a sample from you and send it to a state health department lab for testing to see if it’s swine flu. If your doctor suspects swine flu, he will be able to write you a prescription for Tamiflu or Relenza. These drugs may not be required; U.S. swine flu patients have made a full recovery without it. What can you do to protect yourself, the kids, and others? · Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Stay away from others who are sick, and or coughing. · Wash your hands often with soap and water for around 20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, like Germ-X, are also effective (buy several bottles now, before they are all sold out). It is estimated that 80 percent of all infections are spread by hands. · Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. Can I still eat pork? Yes. You can’t get swine flu by eating pork, bacon, or other foods that come from pigs. Let me know if you have any questions, and I will try and find answers for you. Samquest
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