The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is forecasting the potential for both H1N1and seasonal influenza to impact most states, including New York.

There are several everyday actions that you can take to help prevent the spread of germs that cause influenza:

1.        Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.  Avoid coughing or sneezing into your hands.

2.        Wash your hands often and especially after you cough or sneeze. Washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is ideal.

3.        Use hand sanitizer. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes all work well, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol. Hand wipes must be disposed of properly. Always read and follow label instructions when using hand sanitizer. 

4.        Try to avoid close contact with sick people.  Flu-like symptoms include: fever (over 100 degrees F.), feverishness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose.  Additional symptoms may be experienced with swine flu, including muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. 

5.        The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home from work if you develop flu-like symptoms and that you limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs can spread this way.

6.        Clean surfaces (phones and computer keyboards) and avoid using co-workers' phones and desks.

By practicing good hygiene and keeping ourselves informed, health officials believe we can limit the spread of H1N1 influenza.