:: sue e-portfolio: my world of chemistry ::

Posted By : Suhaida Binti Abd Khalid 28 Jul 2009 02:01:52 PM
Reply To : Asmayati binti Yahaya
Attachment : No File Attach


After reading the memo from our vice chancellor, we must take actions to help prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza. The Flu has many of the same symptoms commonly associated with the seasonal flu. These symptoms include fever, coughing, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. In addition, some cases report intestinal problems, including diarrhea and vomiting. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, you MUST seek medical attention immediately. The disease is best managed when caught as soon as possible. There is no vaccine available right now to protect against H1N1 flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. The WHO recommend these everyday steps to protect your health:

1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

2. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

4. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

5. Do not go to work or school if you are sick. The CDC recommends that you limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

6. Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.

Major health organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Department of Health (DoH) and the Health Protection Agency (HPA) agree that handwashing and sanitiser gels are especially critical to minimize the spread of germs during times of illness outbreak, such as H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Flu). While no hand sanitiser is indicated to prevent H1N1 Flu, according to health organisations, one of the ways you can help protect yourself from H1N1 Flu is by practicing good hand hygiene. Specific recommendations include keeping your hands clean by washing with soap and water, or using sanitiser gels when soap and water may not be available. The best techniques for washing hands to avoid getting the flu following this steps:

1. Wet your hands under warm running water.

2. Use enough soap to thoroughly wash your hands, rubbing your hands together vigorously to make a soapy lather. Lather for 15 to 20 seconds. Be sure to wash the front and backs of your hands as well as between your fingers and under your nails.

3. Rinse your hands thoroughly.

4. Dry your hands completely with a clean paper towel. Use the paper towel to turn off the tap.

5. To help prevent dryness and chapping, use a moisturising lotion on your hands. Even tiny cracks in the skin can harbour germs and leave you vulnerable to infection and illness.