The most important way to protect ourselves against Influenza A (H1N1) infection is to prevent its spread. Since the illness occurs through direct contact with infectious material and respiratory secretions, it is important to practise good personal hygiene.Unlike SARS, patients with H1N1 can be infectious before their symptoms appear, or may even not display any symptoms. Therefore, temperature screening is only somewhat useful in detecting cases of H1N1.
Personal hygiene is thus crucial in preventing the spread of Influenza(H1N1-2009).
Cover Your Nose and Mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose the tissue properly in the trash after use.
- Regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
- Before and after preparing food
- After going to the toilet
- Before and after eating
- After blowing your nose
- After using your hand when coughing or sneezing.
Washing our hands properly is a simple 7 step process which we should use every time.
Here's how:
Use a serving spoon when sharing food from a common dish.
Do not share personal items such as toothbrushes and towels.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
If you are sick, avoid crowded areas and wear a surgical mask.
Stay at home and do not go to work or school if ill.
See your family doctor if you have flu-like symptoms and if you have recently travelled to areas with cases of Influenza A (H1N1) flu.
If you are a smoker, quit smoking. It harms you and your family.
Take more fruit and vegetables as they are the most power-packed combination of nutrients your body needs for good health.
Drink the equivalent of 8 glasses of fluid daily.
Engage in 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 5 or more days a week.
Learn to relax and rest.
Do not throw leftover food on the floor or in the open.
Do not leave food in common areas for stray animals.
Do not spit on the floor and common areas.
Throw used masks, tissue or litter into rubbish bins.
Source: Health Promotion Board