In 5 quick steps. With the H1N1 swine flu virus making a comeback this monsoon, here's an easy-does-it guide to staying safe
In 5 quick steps. With the H1N1 swine flu virus making a comeback this monsoon, here's an easy-does-it guide to staying safe
It's not easy to erase the memory of the pandemonium caused by H1N1 swine flu last year. Suddenly surgical masks became a necessity. Every sneeze and cough made your heart sink.
Here's the bad news: The virus strikes again. Latest PTI reports indicate, more than 108 people have tested positive for the swine flu virus and seven people have succumbed to it as of June 1.
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In the monsoon, the drop in temperature helps the virus thrive better than during warm weather," says Dr Shalini Suralkar, General Practitioner, Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital. She suggests a five-point plan comprising precautionary measures to prevent getting infected by the swine flu virus:
Keep your hands clean
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. The H1N1 virus is a form of influenza that spreads when people cough, sneeze and exhale the germs, which you can pick up on your hands. Always keep a hand
sanitiser in your bag. But make sure it's a trusted brand, and definitely not on the verge of expiry.
Stay away from infected people
Avoid contact with the person who has contracted the virus since this air-borne virus can be transmitted through their exhalations. Wear a surgical mask every time you are around the afflicted patient.
Give a pass to public transport
Avoid travelling in crowded transportation like buses, planes and subways, which are congested to the point of bursting. The decreased air flow in such areas increases your chances of contracting the H1N1 virus. If you must use a public transport, wear an N95 mask.
When in doubt, get yourself checked
Consult a doctor if you fall sick with flu-like symptoms. Stay home from work, school or social situations to
prevent the virus from spreading. Call your doctor before heading to the hospital so you don't infect other patients.
Get a lifestyle immune booster
Leading a healthy lifestyle is the best antidote to falling sick. Follow a balanced, healthy diet, which include vegetables, pulses and dairy products. Exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep. When your immune system remains top notch, you are less likely to fall sick.
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