The influenza self-care information below will give you helpful information you need to know:

1. Understand what influenza (the flu) is, its symptoms and how it spreads.
2, Find out how to protect yourself and others and the importance of cleaning your hands.
3. If you get sick, you should know hw to take care of yourself.
4. If you care for someone who is sick, find out what you should do and when to seek medical care.

What you should know:

Help prevent the spread of influenza:

If you become ill, stay at home and avoid public places. One of the best ways to prevent getting the flu is to get the influenza vaccine every year. The Pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine is available to everyone who wants one and along with the seasonal flu vaccine, will go along way in preventing the flu.

Clean your hands frequently, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Washing hands with soap and water or an alcohol based sanitizer is recommended.

Cough or sneeze into your sleeve rather than your hand.

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after shaking hands or touching hard surfaces like counters and door handles or other surfaces that may contain the influenza virus. Cleaning your work area, computer and telephone with a sanitizer will help to stop the transfer of the virus.

What to do if you think you are sick with the Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Virus:

If you later become short of breath or develop other symptoms of severe illness, contact your health care provider or go to an Emergency Department. If you require Emergency Department care, immediately tell the triage nurse that you have a respiratory problem and if you have had contact with someone who is sick with the Pandemic H1N1 virus.