Swine Flu

As you are aware, a worldwide outbreak of Swine Influenza (swine flu) has been reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined that swine flu is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it not known exactly how easily the virus spreads between people.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has reported that no cases of the swine influenza virus have been reported in Pennsylvania. However, the University of Delaware in Newark, Del., has reported that four University of Delaware students have been identified with cases of influenza that meet probable definitions for swine flu.

The following is provided in an effort to keep you informed regarding this situation and to suggest precautions to take in order to minimize risk.

Recommended standard precautionary measures, as outlined by the CDC, include:

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick to prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
4. Wash your hands often to protect yourself from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to avoid the spread of germs.
6. Practice good health habits – get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

The CDC recommends that people with symptoms should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading the illness to others. If you experience severe symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care.

The CDC has established a swine flu website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu, which is updated regularly.