Health E-Mail—H1N1 flu update
August 25 2009
Cases of H1N1 flu continue to occur in Davidson County and we expect to see an increase in the weeks and months ahead. Communitywide attention to preventive measures is critical to lessening the impact and saving lives in the coming months. A recent essay in the Tennessean explains why H1N1 flu needs our careful attention.
Basic prevention
Like ordinary flu viruses, the 2009 H1N1 influenza (flu) virus can spread from person to person when an ill person coughs and sneezes. When people cough or sneeze, they spread infectious droplets through the air or onto surfaces that other people may touch. The Health Department wants you to help reduce the spread of flu by taking the following steps.
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or cough into your shirt sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Get the seasonal flu shot when it becomes available.
- Get the H1N1 flu shots when that vaccine becomes available.
What to do if you are sick with fever and flu-like symptoms:
- Stay home until you have been fever free without taking medicine for at least 24 hours.
- Consult your primary care provider if you are concerned about your illness.
- Do not visit emergency rooms unless your symptoms are severe.
- Understand that laboratory testing to determine what kind of flu is present is not always necessary
- If your child is sick, keep them at home. Consult your pediatrician.
Flu-like symptoms include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea
Leaders and managers role
Leaders in schools, workplaces and other organizations can take action now to make it easier for people to adhere to these preventive measures. Frequent reminders including posters, prominent availability of hand sanitizer, and attention to illness and leave policies are a few steps that people can take. Additional resources for worksites are available at the CDC website.
Stay informed
I invite you to visit the Health Department's website (health.nashville.gov) for information and the latest guidance for the community, including schools, employers, and faith based organizations. The Health Department also has a recorded community information telephone line (615-340-7775) with the latest information about seasonal and H1N1 flu.
Thank you for your commitment to a Healthy Nashville!
Bill Paul, M.D., Director of Health of Nashville/Davidson County