by Christian Schreiber, staff blogger
With the onset of autumn comes an understandable concern about flu, particularly because of heightened media attention to this year's H1N1 viruses. Providence Life Services recently issued the following Q and As to reassure staff, residents, and families at all our communities that we are taking measures to protect people from the flu:
1. What's so significant about the H1N1 flu virus?
Both seasonal flu and H1N1 flue are contagious viruses that can cause mild to severe illness. Unlike seasonal flu, which is usually active in the fall and winter, H1N1 has continued to circulate throughout the summer and early fall. Most people who are in generally good health will recover without any extra measures. Providence Life Services is being particularly alert though because many of the clients we serve have compromised health to begin with. Plus, the interactivity of living in a community setting can allow the virus to spread faster.
2. What measures is Providence taking to protect people from the flu?
Our Health Services team has been meeting since early June to formulate plans for immunization against seasonal flu and to prepare for an H1N1 flu outbreak if it occurs. Isolation supplies have been ordered, including:
- R-95 masks
- Protective eyewear for staff
- Extra gloves and gowns
- Extra supplies of soap and alcohol hand gels
In addition, Administrators and Managers at all Providence Life Services communities check the websites of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and the World Health Organization (WHO) daily for updates and changes. These websites are far more accurate than traditional media outlets.
3. What can I do to protect myself against the flu?
The single best way to protect against seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, starting in October when yearly flu vaccinations usually become available. Vaccinations greatly reduce someone's chances of getting the flu.
In addition to seasonal flu vaccines, this year an H1N1 flu vaccine is expected to start shipping in October. At first, supplies of the H1N1 vaccine will be limited to certain priority groups, including:
- Pregnant women
- Children 6 months through 4 years old
- Children 5 through 18 years old who have chronic medical conditions
- People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months
- Healthcare and emergency services personnel with direct patient contact
Once the need among these prioritized groups has been met, vaccinations should be available for everyone from 25 through 64 years of age, and then for those 65 and older. (Current studies indicate the risk for H1N1 infection among people over 65 is less than the risk for younger age groups.)
The second best way to protect yourself is simply to practice good hygiene. Remember the 3 Cs:
- Clean — Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.
- Cover — Use a tissue or sleeve to cover your cough and sneeze; don't use your hand.
- Contain — Contain your germs; stay home if you are sick!
4. Where can I get more information?
For the most up-to-date information about the flu, go to www.ready.illinois.gov or www.flu.gov.
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