Swine Flu Precautions
How swine flu is transmitted
In light of the growing threat of swine flu practical measures to prevent its spread are important.
The virus spreads by minute aerosols droplets in the air. These are normally injected into the air by infected persons through coughing or sneezing. It is most contagious during the first five days of illness in adults and ten days in children. Close contact with an ill person dramatically increases the likelihood of getting infected.
Also a person may be contagious for a period of 24hrs before any symptoms begin to show. So there is a short dormant period where an unsuspecting carrier of swine flu might unknowingly spread the disease before they start to show any symptoms.
General preventative measures
The most obvious preventative measure is to avoid travelling to the epicentre of the disease, Mexico. The U.S, E.U and other countries have discouraged non-essential flights to Mexico.
There are a number of measures that you can follow to help you avoid catching and/or spreading swine flu, these are:
- Develop good basic hygiene practices. Wash your hands with soap and water regularly or use alcohol based sanitizers.
- If you cough or sneeze always use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth. Dispose of the tissue immediately after use.
- If possible refrain from touching your nose and mouth as these are viral hotspots.
- Avoid crowded gatherings, like concerts and sport stadiums.
- Clean any frequently touched surfaces, like door handles, tabletops and telephones.
- Stay informed. Watch the news, go online and make sure you are up to date with the progress of the disease.