Protecting ourselves from Swine Flu

 Did you get chills reading the headline from USA Today on August 25, 2009: "Flu could Infect Half of America"? According to the article, 90,000.0 deaths and 2,000,000 patients could be a possibility in the U.S. These are alarming statistics.

This year's pandemic of global flu, H1N1, or Swine Flu, will be back with renewed vigor. The spread of the disease is likely to increase as school is resumed and people spend more time indoors due to the colder weather. The U.S. Center for Disease Control is prepared for this. The government is urging vaccine manufacturers to accelerate production before it is too late. It is also trying to educate the public on ways to reduce the chance of getting infected.

There are common sense ways to avoid getting the virus. The first is to wash your hands frequently and use N95 mask and hand sanitizers before touching or eating. Another common tip is to avoid crowds. This is a funny idea for urbanites. Wouldn't it be great to avoid crowded elevators or subway cars?

To prevent spreading illness to others, people who fall ill should stay at home. Unfortunately, some people are not able to work or take care of their children. The ill and the newly infected are likely to be around us.

We are used to seeing pictures of people wearing surgical masks to prevent contagion in areas infected by swine flu in Mexico and Asia. The CDC in the US has mixed signals about face masks. They have stated that there is not enough evidence to support the use of face masks by the public. However, the CDC stated that masks can catch large amounts of respiratory droplets if someone sneezes near them. Thus, masks may be useful when you are in crowded areas. The CDC advises people who might be in close contact with others to wear face masks if they are ill.

There are two types of masks that are most commonly used in the United States to protect against viruses. Both types can be washed and are disposable.

The N95 respirator can filter out small particles such as dust and prevent inhalation of viruses-containing particles. They can be uncomfortable and less effective as a preventive measure. To create a seal, the N95 must fit tightly around the nose. This can cause breathing difficulties. These respirators can be expensive, and they are also quite ugly.

Also, disposable surgical masks provide reasonable protection for a lower price. Washable cotton fabric can be used to make reusable surgical masks. This is contrary to US medical advice. Reusable surgical masks can be made in many different ways. They can even be used as fashion accessories. A fabric mask can be used as a cover to a standard disposable mask for those who are more cautious.

Being mindful about taking precautions and being considerate to others is a great way to prevent and contain the spread of swine influenza. It is important to learn how to get the most out of a difficult situation.