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By now, you have seen media coverage or heard of the spread of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza (“Swine Flu”) in the United States and other countries. It should be noted, that this is not the Avian or “bird flu” that was so lethal to humans several years ago.
As officials within the State of Texas have lowered the alert level regarding the flu outbreak, daily updates will cease. Current information regarding the number and location of cases can be easily obtained through the websites provided to the right. Should any significant changes occur, the daily updates will resume.
Due to the continued high level of surveillance for the H1N1 virus and to the spread of the virus globally, the Brazos County Health Department anticipated confirmed cases of H1N1 in Brazos County.
DSHS has issued ER Use Guidance, asking Texans to use discretion in use of the ERs. This is prompted by periodic overcrowding of ERs across Texas, with many people going to ERs with very mild symptoms of the flu or seasonal allergies or mild colds. More information about when to seek emergency care, when to contact a doctor and how to take care of flu patients at home is available online at: www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance_homecare.htm.
Monitoring & Prevention
Texas A&M System universities and agencies remain open as usual while closely monitoring the outbreak and encouraging everyone to observe certain precautions to minimize contagion. Extra vigilance to good hygiene practices can be the best approach to the prevention and control of the flu.
Best Practices Include:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. If you are sick, stay home. Limit contact with others.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth because germs can spread that way.
- If you or anyone in your family feels sick with flu-like symptoms, avoid hospital emergency rooms. Instead, stay home and away from other people and contact/call your family physician.
- Do not send your children to school if they display flu-like symptoms. Symptoms may include: high fever, body aches, headaches, coughing, sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue and chills.
The best source of information for all business and academic institution leaders regarding closures or business modifications is their county or regional health department.
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Flu Resources & Links
Brazos County Health Department News Release
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
CDC Home Care Guide
PandemicFlu.gov
Texas Department of State Health Services
www.Texasflu.org
USA Center for Rural Public Health Preparedness
World Health Organization
flu.gov
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