Working together, we can minimize H1N1 threat

To help our area prepare for the return of H1N1 pandemic flu, Panhandle Health District recently invited community leaders from the five northern counties to a planning meeting. More than 70 representatives of schools, child cares, governments, healthcare providers, emergency responders and more gathered for PHD’s H1N1 Flu Summit in Hayden to determine how they could help keep northern Idaho as healthy as possible.

The meeting started a continuing conversation about how to reach the public with H1N1 vaccinations when they’re available. Participants were determined to blanket their memberships, constituents and users with solid information, knowing it will help the public better care for itself. The group pledged to rise to the H1N1 challenge and make our community’s health top priority.

Such community spirit is inspiring and comforting and likely extends far beyond the people at the PHD meeting. Everyone in northern Idaho can show the same spirit by following the H1N1 prevention methods: washing hands often, sneezing and coughing into a tissue or your sleeve, staying home when sick, keeping children home when they’re sick and avoiding contact with others who are sick.

When H1N1 vaccinations are available, let the groups identified as priorities get their vaccinations first: pregnant women; people from 6 months old through age 24; people who live with or take care of children younger than 6 months old; people age 25 through 64 with chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes and cancer; emergency responders and healthcare workers.

If we all show the commitment to public health our community leaders demonstrated at the PHD H1N1 Summit on Aug. 19, we’ll help minimize the adverse affects this virus could have on family, friends and neighbors.

DALE PECK

Coeur d’Alene

Acting director

Panhandle Health District