Avoid H1N1 this season

Staying healthy has always been important, but with new swine flu pandemic, also known as H1N1, in addition to this year's flu season, it is even more important to follow certain guidelines to reduce chances of getting sick. Lynann Svensson, coordinator of the immunization office for County of Sacramento Division of Public Health Immunization Program said the chances of catching H1N1 are very high because it is "spread broadly throughout the area." The most common symptoms of H1N1 are chills, sore throat, severe headache, cough, chills, fever and fatigue. More severe symptoms include pneumonia, nausea and vomiting. There have been 49 documented cases where death has been the outcome of H1N1, according to the Centers of Disease Control. A pharmacist said the flu shot would be available at Bell Air starting Oct. 30 for $35. Cosumnes River College will also be administering flu shots on campus in October and is currently looking for a contractor to provide swine flu shots for the end of October as well, College Nurse Michelle Barkley said. With the rise of the flu sure to arrive, prevention is the key. "If you have the option between washing your hands and hand sanitizer, pick the soap and water," Barkley said. "Hand sanitizers help, but the best way to get the germs off your hands is soap, water and washing for 20 seconds." Other guidelines outlined by CRC Health Services are to cover your cough and sneezes, get eight hours of sleep, exercise for a half an hour four days of the week, drink plenty of water, and avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces. For people who have H1N1, it is important that the person is isolated to reduce the chances of spreading the flu to others, said Barkley. "Protect yourself and others by staying at home when you are sick," she said. If you encounter people who are coughing, it is best that you leave the area and avoid people who are sick, she said. "Stay home for at least 24 hours after you are feeling better," said Communications and Media Officer Kerry Shearer. Shearer said if students start feeling better but then get worse should immediately contact your doctor. Preventative care is the best solution for fighting the flu, Barkley said. "We are exposed to viruses all the time," she said. Washing hands and excursing regularly are some basic guidelines that students should live by to build a strong immune system and stay healthy, Barkley said.

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