With every news
channel buzzing with information about the developing outbreak of
the H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu), Village of Channahon personnel and our
local public safety professionals are constantly monitoring official
channels for signs of the influenza virus spreading to Illinois.
Illinois has recently reported cases that are listed by health
departments as probable cases of H1N1 but as of April 30th , no
reported cases were confirmed.
Our village
personnel are taking some simple steps to stay healthy and protect
themselves when working in the field. Many of these are the same
procedures practiced by most health care professionals. It is
suggested that you make the following tips part of your family’s
everyday routine to stay healthy.
-
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. Germs spread that way.
-
Stay home if you get sick. CDC
recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit
contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Other recommended
tips:
o Follow
public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and
other social distancing measures.
o Develop
a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing
a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and
other essential supplies.
o Symptoms
of swine flu are similar to regular human flu and include:
·
Fever
·
Cough
·
Sore throat
·
Body aches
·
Headache
·
Chills
·
Fatigue
·
Some people also have
reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.
Below is a short
video from the CDC about the H1N1 or Swine Flu. You will need
Quicktime Player to view. If the video does not play, you can
download a free Quicktime player at: http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/
LINK TO VIDEO
Also below are
links for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
State and County Health Departments for you to better keep abreast
of the H1N1 Flu situation. Health reports are being assessed daily
so periodically check back for updated information.
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
http://www.idph.state.il.us/swine_flu/index.htm
http://www.willcountyhealth.org/en/do.jsp
Vaccine Information
*NEW INFORMATION AS OF OCTOBER 2,
2009*