Facts about the H1N1 Virus
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is working with local health care agencies, including St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions, to help spread awareness and tips on prevention related to the recent outbreak of the H1N1 Virus (swine flu).
H1N1 is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks happen regularly in pigs but human infections can occur. Usually these cases are found in people who are around pigs but it can spread from person to person also. You cannot contract the virus from eating pork.
At present every region of the US has been affected. St. Louis County has reported one death related to H1N1. Illinois has set up a hotline with information and resources related to the virus, at 866-848-2094. It is important that people educate themselves about the symptoms of the virus and become aware of preventative measures that must be taken to stop the virus from spreading.
The symptoms of H1N1 in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and deaths have been reported. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. Because of this it is extremely important that our must vulnerable citizens, such as seniors and children, are protected.
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these steps to protect your health:
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Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
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Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
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If you get sick with influenza stay home from work or school and limit contact with others. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
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If you believe you may have symptoms you should seek medical attention.
In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: labored breathing, bluish skin color, not drinking adequate fluids, not waking up easily or interacting, being so irritable the child does not wish to be held or touched, fever with a rash, flu like symptoms that improve then return with a worsened cough or fever.
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: shortness of breath, pain or pressure in chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting.
If you or a loved one are experiencing the above symptoms please seek immediate medical attention and take the steps listed to help avoid spreading the virus.
Information was obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov
The compassionate staff at St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions serves and supports older adults and their families by providing respite care, care management, and nursing services. For more information please contact your Caregiver Specialist at 314-802-5106, toll free
1-888-388-1930 or hobrien@standrews1.com.