Lowell Deeds

Still no documented cases of Swine Flu in Massachusetts, but it might be wise to start following some common sense precautions. The following is some information I received about the current public health situation:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States. Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have also been identified internationally. The current U.S. case count total is 40, with updates available at www.cdc.gov/swineflu.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. There are many things you can to do prevent getting and spreading influenza:

There are everyday actions people can take 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Read additional information to aid in the protection against the spread of Pandemic Influenza at http://pandemicflu.gov/plan/individual/familyguide.html.

For more information on how you can protect yourself and your family, please visit the CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov/swineflu