Butuan City (7 May) -- Following the swine flu pandemic scare affecting US, Mexico, Europe and other Asian countries, the Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga intensifies information campaign on the new human flu H1N1 virus. Recently, DOH Caraga calls for a press conference here, this city to update the tri-media and the Caraganons on the swine flu status in the country. As of press time, there are no recorded cases of swine flu or H1N1 virus in the country. Nonetheless, DOH Caraga left nothing to chance as it step up its campaign against swine flu or H1N1 virus.
Part of DOH Caraga's intensified information campaign is a weekly press conference on the swine flu or H1N1 virus. Every now and then, the department will also issue updates regarding the status of the virus so as to prevent panic among the public. The new human flu H1N1 virus is caused by a new virus that resulted from the reassortment of 4 viruses from pigs, human and birds. There is no vaccine yet to protect humans from this virus but there are existing and recommended medicines that are effective in treating these viruses. The signs and symptoms of the virus is similar to that of the regular flu, such as fever, headache, fatigue, muscle or joint pains, lack of appetite, runny nose, sore throat, cough, vomiting or nausea, and diarrhea.
The virus can be transmitted through exposure to droplets from the cough and sneeze of the infected person. It is not transmitted by eating thoroughly cooked food. The new virus is contagious however it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people. You can protect yourself from the virus through simple hygiene, such as covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Always wash your hands with soap or you may use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Also avoid close contact with sick people. You can also protect yourself by increasing your body's resistance by having at least 8 hours of sleep, being physically active, managing your stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.
If there is a sick person at home, immediately bring the sick person to a doctor. Provide a separate room in the house, if this is not possible, keep the patient at least 1 meter away from other family members. Use surgical mask when caring for the sick person. Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after each contact with the sick person. Have proper ventilation where the sick person stays and keep the environment clean. (PIA-Caraga)
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