Pandemic Flu (H1N1)
|
Pandemic Flu (H1N1)
If you are ill:
- Stay in a room separate from common areas of the home and avoid contact with others as much as possible.
- Stay at home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without using medicine to reduce the fever.
- Get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Consider wearing a facemask, if available and tolerable, when sharing common spaces with household members.
- Check with your healthcare provider about whether to take antiviral medication, or if fever persists, whether antibiotics are needed.
When caring for someone who has the flu:
- Disinfect door knobs, switches, handles, toys and other surfaces that everyone touches.
- Use detergent and very hot water to do dishes and wash clothes. It's okay to wash everyone's dishes and clothes together. Wash your hands after handling dirty laundry.
- Designate only one adult as the caregiver. People at increased risk of severe illness from the flu should not be caregivers.
- Deal with crisis situations calmly and confidently to give the best support to the person being cared for.
- Remember your own needs as well.
- Practice healthy habits. Eat a balanced diet. Drink plenty of water. Get regular exercise.
- Get enough sleep and rest.
According to the CDC, most people who have become ill with the H1N1 virus are moderately ill, similar to the illness that occurs during the regular flu season. H1N1 is affecting many young adults and children, people ages five to 24. The majority of people sick with H1N1 don't need testing or treatment. However if someone is severely ill and is pregnant, and has trouble breathing or has an underlying condition like heart disease, lung disease (such as asthma) or diabetes, it is important to get treated promptly within the first 48 hours.
|
|
|
|
