Cooley Dickinson Hospital's Infection Prevention Department offers the following tips to keep you healthy.
Download the public health fact sheet from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
H1N1 influenza ("swine flu") continues to be found sporadically in the US. So far, however, disease found in the US has generally been mild. Taking common sense precautions is the best way to control the spread of this virus.
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these steps to protect your health:
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If a tissue is not available, cough into the bend in your arm. Clean your hands after you sneeze.
• 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 this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• 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.
• If you are ill and believe you have had contact with someone with the flu, or been in an area with known flu such as Mexico, call your primary care physician and stay home from work.
• If you plan to visit someone at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, please review our updated visiting policy.
Listen to the WHMP Podcast
H1N1 Townhall Meeting from Cooley Dickinson Hospital
For more information visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
Traveling? Check this map for the latest flu reports.