MDG provides tips on preventing influenza outbreak Published May 11, 2009 By Lt. Col. Leigh Swanson Public health emergency officer F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- About every 20 years there is an outbreak of a new type of influenza that spreads around the world affecting humans. Although, it is still too early to determine if the recent cases of H1N1 flu, or swine flu, will meet this criteria. Nevertheless, Warren members are working toward being prepared for any situation. The local public health department and other agencies, to include Warren, are involved in discussions and planning in order to help protect the community. The H1N1 flu appears to be transmitted from person to person so the 90th Medical Group would like to give some helpful tips in preventing an influenza outbreak: -Use a tissue when coughing or sneezing and then throw the tissue in the trash. -Washing hands is important. Use warm or hot water with soap while singing the ABCs. This ensures adequate time is being spent washing hands. Also using an alcohol based hand sanitizer can help reduce the spread of illness. Washing frequently, especially after sneezing or coughing is an important step. -Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick by staying about six feet away from them. -Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth because that's the way viruses are transmitted. -Try to stay in good general health by getting plenty of sleep, eating nutritious foods, drinking plenty of water and remaining physically active. Symptoms of the H1N1 flu are similar to the symptoms of the regular flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and feeling overtired. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting. Typically, people with the flu can infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and continuing seven or more days after becoming sick. If the H1N1 flu finds its way to Warren, and someone becomes ill with influenza-like symptoms the person should contact a health care provider. The health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed. If the person is able, stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading the illness to others. For anyone who becomes ill and experiences any severe symptoms, seek emergency medical care. For more information about the H1N1 flu contact a health care provider or call the Laramie County Public Health Office hotline at 633-4000. Or visit the Center of Disease Control at http://www.cdc.gov. Symptoms needing urgent medical care: For children: -Fast breathing or trouble breathing -Bluish skin color -Not drinking enough fluids -Not waking up or not interacting -Being so irritable the child does not want to be held -Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough -Fever with a rash For adults: -Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath -Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen -Sudden dizziness -Confusion -Severe or persistent vomiting