H1N1 Virus Back In The News -- Be Prepared

16 September, 2009

News channels have again begun talking about the H1N1 virus (I refuse to call it ‘swine flu’ as it has NOTHING whatsoever to do with pigs). It's hard to turn on the TV without hearing about a new case or public concern. I’m a little surprised we haven’t seen an episode of the medical drama “House” or “Scrubs” featuring the debilitating strain of flu.

Our household is making a ‘just in case’ plan, stocking up on tissues, ibuprofen, water, chicken soup, green tea, and throat lozenges. In the interim we’ll be using plenty of hand sanitizer and we’re very conscientious about hand washing, too.

Contrary to some of the early panic-laden reports, the Center For Disease Control stats show that most cases of H1N1 have been pretty mild. Unless infected people develop significant trouble breathing, severe chest or abdominal pain, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe and persistent vomiting or worsening fever or cough, you can usually deal with simple at-home treatments. If any of these more threatening symptons appear, however, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for immediate assistance and reliable medical advice. Better safe than sorry!