With outbreaks of swine flu [also called A/H1N1 infection] now making national news, the Mississippi State University Student Health Center is offering important reminders to minimize the risk of infection.
As of April 29 [Wednesday], the Centers for Disease Control had advised restricting non-essential travel to Mexico, site of major outbreaks. With the number of outbreaks increasing, the possibility for a potential pandemic remains. There currently is no clear understanding of how communicable the virus is, nor the clinical nature of the infection.
To avoid the possibility of contracting the virus, the Longest Student Health Center advises vigilance and good hygiene. Specific recommendations:
- Wash hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol gel if soap is not available.
- Cover your mouth and nose if you sneeze or cough, preferably with a tissue or your sleeve, not your hand.
- Dispose of the tissue in a waste can and wash your hands after your sneeze or cough.
- If you develop a fever with a cough or sore throat, contact your health provider.
- If you travel to an infected area, maintain a social distance of 3-6 feet, do not shake hands, and monitor your health closely for seven days after returning.
For the latest advisories, see
http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluMexico.aspx.