460 MDG offers H1N1 Influenza guidance

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Joseph Siddall
  • 460th Medical Operations Squadron
The Buckley Public Health office is aware of the local H1N1 cases at Schriever Air Force Base and the Air Force Academy. The situation remains closely monitored through active surveillance with the Department of Defense, local, and state health departments.

Data gathered so far show that the signs and symptoms and modes of transmission are very similar to the annual seasonal flu. There is no need at this time to change travel plans or restrict movement. Follow the actions below to protect yourself and monitor the media for the latest updates. 

Protective measures

· Wash hands with soap and water often and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
· Avoid close contact with people who are coughing and sneezing
· Cough/sneeze into a tissue or inside the arm
· Keep objects such as ID cards, pens, pencils, etc., out of the mouth
· Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth
· Sanitize contact surfaces such as door handles, elevator buttons, phones and keyboards regularly
· Practice good health habits such as getting adequate sleep, eating nutritious food and keeping physically active

Signs and symptoms of H1N1 Influenza
· Fever greater than 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit and at least one of the following:
· Coughing and/or sneezing
· Sore throat
· Vomiting and diarrhea
· Breathing difficulties

Actions to take if ill
· Active duty should call for medical advice with their primary care team if flu symptoms are present
· Civilians should contact their primary care team and keep supervisors informed of their condition
· Dependants  should seek medical advice from their primary care team if they have flu symptoms
· Inform the medical provider if you have had contact with a sick person or have traveled recently
· If possible, remain at home for 7 days from onset of symptoms or 24 hours after symptoms have resolved, whichever is longer
· Inform supervisors, family and friends of your health status

Home care instructions for an ill person
· Separate the ill person at least 3 feet from others or, preferably, place in an isolated room
· Follow supportive care instructions from the medical provider
· Keep home clean by using household cleaning agents
· Wash hands regularly with soap and water

For more information
www.cdphe.state.co.us/epr/h1n1.html
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm

www.who.int/en
State Public Health HOTLINE: 1-877-462-2911 (toll-free)