H1N1 Flu Virus: Protecting Yourself and Others

The H1N1 influenza virus continues to be a newsmaker as it spreads virtually everywhere around the world. The 2009 H1N1 strain is about as severe as the seasonal flu, and just as with each flu season, people have died or been hospitalized from illnesses associated with this virus,

The 2009 H1N1 is a “novel” influenza virus - most people do not have antibodies to it. Older people are the least likely to be infected, but they are on the list of those who are most likely to develop serious illness if they do get sick. Those at the highest risk of developing severe illness after getting H1N1 are children younger than five, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. These are in the group of those who should be vaccinated, along with all people from 6 months through 24 years of age, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age and healthcare and emergency medical services personnel.

To protect yourself and your co-workers, employees should:

• Stay home if you are sick. Do not return to work until 24 hours after your fever is gone.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes, which spreads the flu germs.
• Practice cough etiquette (cover your cough or sneeze, toss tissues in the trash, and always wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose).
• Wash your hands frequently and use waterless hand cleaner when you cannot wash your hands.

For more information on the H1N1 flu, visit:
www.statefundca.com/safety/losscontrol/Article.asp?ArticleID=625
www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Pages/SwineInfluenza.aspx
www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU