While the headlines about H1N1flu have largely disappeared, the virus has not.
The World Health Organization has declared a worldwide pandemic and says that continued spread of the disease is inevitable. There have been four H1N1 deaths confirmed in Maryland to date; nationwide, the number of reported deaths as of July 24 was 302 and rising, even though in most years flu largely disappears in the summer. Experts say the number of domestic illnesses is likely to continue to increase later this year, when the annual flu season begins in the Northern Hemisphere.
Most reported cases of the H1N1 flu, including each of the handful of confirmed cases in the Johns Hopkins University community, have been relatively mild, comparable to cases of seasonal flu. But like any influenza virus, this virus can cause serious, even fatal illness, especially in those with a serious underlying medical condition. Like any flu virus, this one can mutate, which may alter its impact on those who become infected.
It is important, therefore, for each of us to do what he or she can to limit the spread of the virus. It is important now; it will be especially important when the seasonal flu season begins this fall. It will remain important even if vaccine against this flu becomes available later this year.
We urge you, therefore, to continue to practice good hygiene, now – even though we do not usually think of summer as a time for flu precautions – and certainly on into the fall and winter. In particular:
* Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, and dispose of the tissue in the trash immediately. It is better to cover your cough or sneeze with your arm rather than your hand.
* Wash your hands, thoroughly and often, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective and can be carried with you for use when soap and water are not available.
* To help prevent spreading germs, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
* If you are ill with flu-like symptoms, stay home or consult your doctor for advice. Leave home only if you need to seek medical attention. Do not go to class or to work, especially if you have a fever. Do not put yourself into public situations where you might expose others.
There is more information and advice, including additional guidance on what to do if you experience flu-like symptoms, at the federal government’s H1N1 Web site: http://www.flu.gov/ or at the CDC’s web site, http://www.cdc.gov/ (click on the green “H1N1 flu info” box to the right of the page).
