by Tina Martin

Created on: April 29, 2009

According to the Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases (CCID) and the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) "more than 200,000 persons are hospitalized" each year due to flu-related complications and approximately 36,000 people die due to these complications.

The fact that people are catching the swine flu should not be a fear inducing panic, although the implications can be the same as would be from a normal flu season. However, what we are seeing is not "normal" in the fact that this flu seems to be spreading world wide and outside the typical "flu season" which is known to usually occur between November and March. Anytime something is out of our "norm" we tend to be apprehensive. So let's look at a few things that can help prevent or minimize the spread of this recent flu that is catching us by surprise.

Cleanliness

Hand washing is a very integral part of preventing the spread of most diseases. Antibacterial soaps mostly are designed to kill bacteria. One antibacterial soap, "Skinvisible's DermSafe(R) Hand Sanitizer" is reported to actually be able to 99.9% kill the swine flu virus (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/147985.php ). Either way, the best way to ensure adequate hand washing is done is to make sure to apply soap to wet hands and wash each finger, front and back of hand well for at least 1 minute and rinse well. Dry hands completely. Repeat this procedure after sneezing, coughing or being in an area with a group of people.

Coughing and Sneezing

When you cough or sneeze, you are releasing droplets that could contain the airborne virus that causes the flu. Best is to cough or sneeze into a tissue and immediately discard, followed by hand washing. If you are not in a place where you can easily wash your hands after same, the next best thing would be to pull out the neck of your shirt and sneeze inside, thereby somewhat containing the droplets inside. Some people think that sneezing or coughing into the arm of a shirt is equally beneficial, however, the sleeve often comes in contact with other people or items they may touch. Turning away to sneeze is not effective as droplets can remain airborne for a short time, hence someone walks through that area may become affected by the droplets.

Rest & Fluids

If you are run down and even a bit dehydrated, you are more susceptible to catching sickness or disease. Rest up. Forgo that late episode on the television and get an extra couple hours of sleep. Drink plenty of fluids

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