H1N1 Information

Without trying to add any worry or concern (and in some cases panic) concerning the current H1N1 situation, here is some information that everyone should be aware of. Without a doubt, regardless of all the preventative measures we take, SCMS will be hit by the H1N1 virus....just like we get hit by the flu every year. I don't want to make light of it, but I also don't want to over-react. It's a fine line that I walk. Here is some information that I recieved from the St. Clair County Health Department:

Current Recommendations:

Get a seasonal flu shot. Shots are available throughout the community and are our best method of protection against seasonal flu
Anyone in the H1N1 target groups (pregnant woman, children 6 months-24 years, caregivers of children under 6 months, health care workers and those 24-64 with underlying health conditions) should get vaccinated as soon as supplies become available.
Most people with flu like symptoms do NOT need to see their physician.
Make sure you have a thermometer, cold remedies and fever reducers on hand. Supplies can become limited in pharmacies during flu outbreaks
Stay informed by checking the websites listed below as well as local print and radio communications

Personal Protection Reminders:

Ÿ Wash hands often or use alcohol based hand sanitizer
Ÿ Cover coughs and sneezes with tissue or your sleeve
Ÿ Stay home when you are sick (24 hours after fever is gone)
Ÿ Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Ÿ Frequently clean commonly shared surfaces (door knobs, etc.)

Resources for more information:

www.stclaircounty.org/offices/health
www.cdc.gov/h1n1
www.michigan.gov/h1n1

For more information contact:

Susan Amato, Director of Health Education & Planning
810-987-5300 ext. 1510
samato@hd.stclaircounty.org