This year’s H1N1 (swine) flu virus reminds us how vigilant we must be to protect
ourselves and our families from the flu. The Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention’s website has an entire section
devoted to the latest news and information on the H1N1 virus. You will find information
on flu symptoms, how the virus spreads, and what you should do if you get sick.
The website offers tips to caregivers who may be in contact with someone who has
the virus and provides information for specific groups of people most vulnerable
to the flu, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic
diseases or HIV.
The site contains updated numbers of H1N1 cases nationwide listed by state. A color-coded
map of the U.S. shows where the virus is most prevalent.
If you’re traveling this summer, the website provides information on how to
reduce your risk of exposure overseas and what to do if you become sick abroad.
You can listen to podcasts of CDC travel medicine doctors instructing travelers
on how to stay healthy.
The Social Media Tools section has an online tool that transfers content from the
CDC website to your website so it can receive the latest updates on H1N1. You can
also take a quiz to test your knowledge of the flu.
If you think you may have the H1N1 virus and would like to speak with a doctor about
it, HMSA's Online Care is an excellent
resource. You can get medical advice without leaving home and potentially exposing
others.
We’d love to hear from you.
If you know a web site that focuses on health, family, food or fun, email it to feedback@islandscene.com and we may review it for Island Scene Online.