Protecting You and Your Family

Other Resources

FLU.gov

Calvert County Health Department

Special H1N1 (Swine) Flu Clinic for Children

H1N1 & Pregnancy

Press Releases

Hospital issues new limits on children visiting (Oct. 9, 2009)

Hospital urges precautions during flu upswing (Oct. 1, 2009)

Hospital, county agencies get ready for flu season (Sept. 8, 2009)

#1 Take time to get vaccinated.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly seasonal flu vaccine as the most important step you can take.
• The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the three most common seasonal viruses.
• Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk:
  • Young children
  • Pregnant women
  • People with chronic health conditions
  • People 65 and older
• A new vaccine against H1N1 (swine) flu is being produced and will be available in the fall.*
• People at greatest risk for H1N1 (swine) flu include:
  • Children
  • People who care for infants
  • Pregnant women
  • People with chronic health conditions

* Distribution of H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine could be affected by the quantity available.

#2 Take everyday preventive actions.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.

#3 Be ready to treat the flu at home.

• Recognize flu symptoms and complications and keep track of them.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider to determine if antiviral drugs are right for you.
• Have some key medical supplies on hand to care for a sick family member.
• Gather other supplies you may need in an emergency.
• Practice healthy hygiene habits and teach them to children.
• Clean your home and its frequently touched objects and surfaces regularly.

If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible.