Scioto County Preparedness Response to the Swine Influenza (H1N1 Incident)
Here are some websites that will keep you updated on the Swine Flu situation. One is the Centers for Disease Control with their recommendations on how to take care of someone at home with the flu: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidance_homecare.htm. Or for more specific information http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/?s_cid=swineFlu_outbreak_001 .
It is recommended by the Portsmouth City and Scioto County Health Departments that if you experience a quick onset of flu symptoms, including high fever, headache and cough you should contact your local health care provider. As always, you should practice good personal hygiene, including frequent hand washing with soap and warm water, use of alcohol hand sanitizer gels, cover your mouth or cough into your sleeve, throw your tissues away in the garbage after each use, stay home when you are sick, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and limit contact with sick individuals.
The number of swine flu cases will likely increase, however, the indiscriminant use of anti-virals (Tamiflu and Relenza) are not recommended as it can cause the virus to become resistant. For additional information, call the Scioto County health Department at 354-3241 or the Portsmouth City Health Department at 353-5153. Both Health Departments can be reached after hours in an emergency at 740-352-2560.
Vicki Daily, RSVP Director
