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Along with the new school year there also comes a new wave, or outbreak, of the H1N1 swine flu virus. It is a part of our lives now, and in order to keep this illness from reaching epidemic proportions we must learn how to safeguard ourselves, as well as others that we interact with. This is especially important in social settings, such as schools, where large numbers of individuals are in contact with each other on a day to day basis.

There are a number of ways to prevent the spread of swine flu in schools, and it is very important for each student, parent, or visitor to that setting to insure that they are aware of these simple preventitive measures, and to use them.

Know the symptoms of H1N1 or swine flu virus:

Help stop the spread of this potentially devastating illness. The symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus are really not that different from the symptoms of a traditional flu virus. The most common symptoms are a fever, runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and pains. With the swine flu virus you may also experience diarrhea or vomiting but these are a rarer symptom of this influenza strain. Know the symptoms of the swine flu virus and if you suspect that you may be ill, then stay at home. If you experience any of these symptoms do not take the chance of infecting someone else.

Avoiding touching your mouth, eyes and nose:

The areas of your body that the H1N1 flu virus will use as entry points are your mouth, eyes and nose. Don't allow it to infect you. Avoid any unnecessary touching of your mouth, eyes or nose. Practicing this simple precaution will make this a mannerism that easily becomes a part of your daily living pattern. Also remember to always wash your hands before you touch your face, or consume any food, or liquid products. This will insure that you are not transferring this virus into your body. If you are visiting someone infected by the virus, or a high infection area such as a doctors office or hospital, wear a mask to prevent inhalation of the virus. Protect yourself.

Be aware of high risk contact areas within your school:

Water fountains, doorknobs, telephones, handrails, desktops, and shared learning materials such as books, maps, pens or pencils can all be breeding grounds for the swine flu virus. Shared computers or library books may harbor this virus. Any common area that is touched, or has the potential to be breathed or sneezed on by another person, can be a contact point for contracting this

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