Tuesday, 28 April 2009

Swine Flu - How to stay healthy

What are the symptoms of swine influenza in people?
The symptoms are like those of regular seasonal flu and include: fever of sudden onset, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache and muscle aches. Some people have vomiting and diarrhoea.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you get sick with a flu-like illness as described above, and have recently visited an affected area or have been in contact with a known case of swine flu, contact your GP/family doctor by telephone. They will decide if you need testing or treatment.
What can I do to stay healthy?
As with any infectious respiratory disease, the following precautionary measures are recommended to avoid getting or spreading the flu:
*Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissues when sneezing, coughing, wiping and blowing your nose
*Dispose of used tissues in the nearest waste bin
*Wash your hands often with soap and water, and especially after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
*Clean hard surfaces (e.g door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
*Try to avoid close contact with sick people
*If you are sick with flu, stay at home to avoid spreading infection to others and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

This information has been provided by the Health Service Executive's website, www.hse.ie

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