The H1N1 flu, becoming more commonly known as the swine flu, is bound to be the cause of many peoples' illnesses this winter. If you happen to be one of them, you're going to be spending some serious time at home, trying to get better and staying away from other people. To make things a little easier when that time comes, take into consideration these steps to help prepare yourself now:
1. Have a backup plan.
If you happen to get sick, or end up taking care of someone who does have swine flu, what is your plan for missing work or school? Does your company have a policy for flu leave? If you're still in school, how will you keep up with your classwork? These are things to think about now so there are no surprises later.
2. Be good to your friends.
You might need your friends as "flu buddies" when you're down and out with the flu, especially if you're living alone. Now is the time to expand your social network if it is thinned recently.
3. Stockpile your flu supplies.
Do you have enough tissues and medicines to bring down your fever? Do you own a thermometer so you can check your temp when you're sick? Of course, you'll need lots of liquids to stay hydrated. If you choose to wear face masks when you are sick and can't avoid contact with others, be sure only to use a face mask once, not multiple times.
4. Gather up comfort foods.
Go through your refrigerator, pantry, and take a look at your order-in menus. Make sure you have plenty of the foods you eat to comfort you when you're ill -- tea, chicken noodle soup, crackers -- whatever foods you like when you're sick. You will definitely not feel like going shopping when you have the swine flu.
5. Treat your hands well.
Even if you manage to avoid the swine flu, you'll be washing your hands a lot trying to avoid it. Get yourself a nice gel soap, and some lotion too. You'll be lathering your hands quite abit so its better to leave them feeling smooth than raw.
6. Get some DVDs and books.
But don't buy anything that requires too much concentration. You're not going to be feeling well and its probably not the best time to tackle War and Peace.
7. Be aware of the risks.
Women who are pregnant, teenagers and children, and anyone with a chronic medical condition (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease) have higher chances of becoming extremely ill from swine flu. Read up about swine flu and pregnancy or swine flu and chronic health conditions and if you start displaying symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
8. Get out the yard stick.
If you have swine flu, it is wise and considerate to stay at least 6 feet away from others to avoid getting them sick. Figure out how far that is and stick to it.
9. Add your doctor to speed dial.
Unless you've got a severe case, your doctor would rather you not come into their office unannounced to spread your germs. Give them a call first, you may not even need to go into the office.
10. Know when it is an emergency.
The majority of swine flu cases have been fairly mild. But, as you know, there have been hospitalizations and even deaths. Be aware of the danger signs and seek immediate medical care if they arise. Children should seek medical attention swiftly if they:
Are breathing fast or have trouble breathing
Are experiencing bluish or grey skin color
Aren't drinking enough liquids
Aren't waking up or interacting with others
Have persistent, severe vomiting
Are extremely irritable and do not want to be held
Have flu-like symptoms that seem to get better but then return with an even worse cough
Have fever accompanied by a rash
Have a fever and then a seizure followed by mental change
Adults should seek immediate medical attention if they have:
A hard time breathing or shortness of breath
Pressure or pein in the chest or abdominal area
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Persistent vomiting
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