H1N1 flu information

Published April 29, 2009
By 18th Wing Public Health Flight

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- In response to the human cases of H1N1 Flu, military preventive medicine and public health officials across the island continue to meet in a joint working group to discuss preventive measures.

At this time, the criteria for screening people for H1N1 virus are
a. Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C) AND

b. Respiratory symptoms (sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, headache/body
ache) AND

c. Travel to Mexico, US States that border Mexico or other region w/
confirmed H1N1 flu cases w/in the last 2-3 weeks

Like seasonal flu, the H1N1 Flu virus may cause a worsening of underlying
chronic medical conditions. Consult your health care provider if flu-like symptom develop.

Individuals should practice these simple procedures:

. 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 this way.

. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

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

For more information on the H1N1 Flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention Web site at www.cdc.gov.

For specific information on travel precautions and an update on the affected
areas, please visit: www.cdc.gov/travel.