Swine flu raising concerns

Last week I discussed briefly various viruses and how to clean using various products.  In this week’s article I would like to discuss specifically swine influenza (H1N1).

The U.S. Department of Health issued a health emergency to help deal with the current outbreak.  This health alert deals specifically with commercial and healthcare facilities because those areas see most of the population.  They have been advised to follow contact and airborne precautions procedures. 

I must state before I proceed that I’m not a medical doctor or licensed/certified nurse.  For more information on this subject please contact your health care provider.  The following information was extracted from the CDC; additional information may be gained by going to their Web site at www.cdc.gov.

I think the best approach to the balance of this article is to break this subject down to the lowest level and that is to the individual person that this virus may affects. 

The following is some baseline question that most of us want answered.

What are the signs and symptoms of this virus?

The symptoms are very similar to the normal flu which includes fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and general fatigue.  Some folks have reported diarrhea and vomiting.  Like the normal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How do you catch swine flu?

For most of us we catch this virus through person to person contact.  This virus is thought to spread mainly person to person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

How long can does a person stay contagious?

People with the swine flu infection should be considered contagious as long as they are symptomatic, sometimes up to 7 days following the onset of the illness.

How do I protect myself from getting sick?

Unfortunately, right now there are no vaccines for this virus.  The following techniques will help reduce the chances for the spread bacteria and viruses:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough.

• Wash your hand frequently and use hand alcohol-based hand cleaners.

• Avoid contact with sick people.

• If you get sick, stay home.  Don’t go to work or school.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek medical care.

Small children warning signs include:

• Fast or troubled breathing.

• Bluish skin color.

• Not drinking enough fluids.

• Not waking up or not interacting.

• High fever with a rash.

In adults warning signs are:

• Difficult breathing or shortness of breath.

• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.

• Sudden dizziness.

• Confusion

• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266), email them to nwees@hughes.net  or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What would Ed do?  For more information about Ed, and his new handyman services, check him out at NWEES.COM.

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection & remediation/restoration contractor.  Ed is the president of Northwest Environmental Services, Inc.