About Swine Flu
The human swine flu outbreak presents a challenging situation across the country and internationally. Swine flu in the United States is believed to be a result of sustained human to human transmission.
Virginia has a strong public health system and is well prepared to address the current situation. For example, tracking mechanisms are in place to identify individuals who have traveled to areas where they may have come in contact with the virus. Also, our local health districts are actively engaged in our response and are working closely with health care providers in their areas.
As citizens, you should take precautions. Review your emergency plans at home and at work. Share Virginia's public health messages with friends and family. The Virginia Department of Health encourages anyone with influenza-like illness to follow these standard guidelines:
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- If you think you require medical attention, call your health care provider in advance so that they can take the necessary infection control precautions prior to your arrival.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
In addition, you should continue to monitor this fluid situation by accessing the latest information on the Virginia Department of Health's Web site, and on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's swine flu page.
At flu.gov, you will find several flu-related topics, including the School Guidance and Toolkit and the Virginia State & Local Planning & Response Activities. And to learn more about teaching children about good health practices, visit Staying Healthy Every Day.
