Swine Flu Tips: Be Prepared, Don’t Panic (and Wash Your Hands)

A strand of swine flu is fanning out across North America, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Fears of a pandemic are spreading too. But before we get carried away, there is some basic knowledge about this flu bug everyone should know. We have two big things going for us (us being humanity):

Number one: it is preventable. Eat healthy meals and get plenty of sleep to keep your immune system strong. But more than anything else: wash your hands. A staggering number of people don’t. A recent survey showed two-thirds of Americans admit “they might not always wash their hands properly.” I am often appalled in restrooms when I’m soaping up my hands and a man inside a stall doesn’t even look at the sinks on his way out the door.

Number two: it is treatable. The CDC says oseltamivir or zanamivir can treat it, and antiviral drugs can help your body fight it.

If you are sick, the best thing to do is stay home and rest, the CDC says. Be sure to contact your health care provider as well.

Blogger’s note: This issue, obviously, isn’t exactly a crime and justice topic. But part of my job is covering public safety issues, and this is, well, an issue of public safety. Spread the word to your friends, neighbors, and coworkers.

Here are some more useful links:

Widget from CDC