H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Flu) Preparedness Update

Vaccine Development Continues

Hand Hygiene One of the Best Preventatives Against the Spread of Germs

As the development for an H1N1 Influenza A (swine flu) vaccine continues, hand hygiene remains as a top priority in preventing the spread of the virus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says anti-viral and other drugs, social distancing and personal hygiene should be used prior to development of a vaccine and following the availability of vaccine, expected in limited supply at first.¹

According to the WHO, both alcohol handrubs and washing with soap and water are important in minimizing the risk of spreading swine flu, as they both deactivate the flu virus. Alcohol handrub can only be used on visibly clean hands. If hands are dirty, soap and water should be used. Handrubs are useful when there is no easy access to a place to wash and dry your hands

The Department of Health in England, which exists to improve the health and well-being created a brochure urging the public to catch it, bin it, kill it.

• Always carry tissues with you. Use a clean tissue to cover your mouth and nose every time you cough or sneeze – catch it.
• Bin the tissues after one use – bin it
• Wash your hands often with soap and hot water or a special gel – kill it.

Meanwhile as the H1N1 virus continues to circulate around the world, scientists and public health experts forecast that the impact of H1N1 may worsen in the fall. Major health organizations, such as the WHO, continue to monitor the virus for its transmissibility, virulence and resistance.

For more information on H1N1 Influenza, log on to the Department of Health website or the Health Protection Agency website.

[1] http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/vaccine_preparedness/en/

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