Swine flu awareness and prevention

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Terence Mitchell
  • 1st Special Operations Medical Group
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Much has been reported in the news lately about the outbreak of human cases of the swine flu in the United States and abroad.

Currently, no cases have been reported in the local area. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working closely with officials in states where human cases of swine influenza A have been identified.

Awareness of the virus and preventative measures are keys to stop the outbreak. The following is information about the virus and tips to prevent the spread of it.

What are the symptoms of swine flu in humans?

· The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, muscle aches and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

How does swine flu spread?

· Spread of the swine influenza A virus is thought to be the same as seasonal flu. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What should I do to keep from getting swine flu?

· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

· Try to avoid close contact with sick people; use social distancing as a general rule.

· If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Should I have any concerns about traveling?

· If traveling to the following areas: San Diego and Imperial Counties in California, Guadalupe County in Texas, or Mexico, please visit www.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluMexico.aspx for travel tips before you leave.
The CDC has NOT recommended that people avoid travel to Mexico at this time. If you are planning travel to Mexico, follow these recommendations to reduce your risk of infection and help you stay healthy.

· See your doctor for specific recommendations.

· Be sure you are up-to-date with all your routine vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccine if available.

· Pack a travel health kit that contains basic first aid and medical supplies.

· Identify the health-care resources in the area(s) you will be visiting.

· Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities do not have the legal authority, capability, or resources to give medications, vaccines or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas.


If you are feeling sick with flu-like symptoms, seek medical attention by calling Central Appointments at 884-7882.

For immediate questions or concerns, please call Public Health at 881-4756 or 881-5264.

For more specific and updated information about the swine flu, please visit the CDC's website at: HTTP://WWW.CDC.GOV/FLU/SWINE/INVESTIGATION.HTM