With recent cases of the swine influenza reported around the world, we would like to provide, you, our readers, information to raise your awareness of the need to take precautions against the flu virus and the potential spread of infection.
Public health organizations continue to monitor the spread of the virus and some countries have issued a warning against non-essential travel to Mexico where the virus is currently severe. However, health officials still consider travel to other destinations safe at this time.

The best protection against the virus is to understand what it is and how to avoid contracting it.
The swine flu is a respiratory infection caused by a virus originating in pigs that has been transmitted to humans. Though people do not normally get this flu, infection is possible. The virus can travel airborne from an infected person’s cough or sneeze or when a contaminated object is touched by another person who then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Experts advise you cannot get the swine flu from eating pork or pork products. The symptoms are similar to regular human flu symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting. In more severe cases, or in people with chronic conditions, complications such as pneumonia may develop.

Take steps to avoid the flu by regularly and thoroughly washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Remind your family members to wash their hands as well. Alternatively, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Cough and sneeze into your arm or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash immediately and wash your hands. Try not to touch surfaces that have the potential to be contaminated. Keep your immune system strong. Get plenty of sleep, stay active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. If you get sick, stay home and if your child gets sick, keep him or her home from school.
And be sure to talk to a health professional if you or one of your family members experience severe flu-like symptoms.