Stay A(H1N1)-free during the flu season

MANILA, Philippines - The dreaded A(H1N1) virus is at it again.

With the onset of erratic weather in various parts of the world, people everywhere — including the Philippines — have to be mindful about more outbreaks of the flu.

After the Christmas holidays come several more holidays that send balikbayans and tourists flocking to local resorts and beaches. And with that, the threat of flu. Some of the flu strains may be of the A(H1N1) variety.

Thus, the whole world — from the USA to Canada, to the UK, Germany, France, Romania, and other European countries, as well as Asian neighbors South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China and Taiwan — is undergoing intensive preparations to ward off the seemingly harmless but actually deadly virus.

The sayings still hold true. The best offense is defense against the deadly virus. Prevention is always better than cure.

Here are some tips to avoid getting contaminated by the A(H1N1) virus :

1. Wash hands often and well. Use hand sanitizers if you can’t wash your hands.

2. Cover your mouth with a hankie or tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you can, get yourself as far as possible from people who cough or sneeze.

3. Avoid shaking hands, hugging, social kissing or holding hands during religious ceremonies during the flu season.

4. Hold parties or gatherings in open spaces, preferably.

5. Eat good food, drink a lot of water, get enough rest and sleep.

6. Unless you are a health worker, avoid too much contact with sick people.

7. If you are the one who’s sick, keep your distance from friends or guests. Call in sick and stay at home.

8. Plan your travels well. Visit A(H1N1)-prone countries only if extremely necessary. When you return, observe yourself for signs of fever, coughing, body aches, and pains. Visit the doctor or your health service if these symptoms manifest.

9. Aerate your room. Open your windows for at least one hour to allow the air to circulate freely. Air-conditioned rooms usually keep the harmful organisms inside your closed area.

10. Stay home if you have the flu-like symptoms (for at least seven days). Consult a physician near your place.

Most important, avoid stress and worry, and stay super safe once and for all by getting vaccinated against the A(H1N1) virus.

Glovax Inc., an international dealer of vaccines, has secured 100,000 doses of the globally sought after A(H1N1) vaccine for the Philippines.

Because of the limited supply, reservations are encouraged. Inquire from your doctor or vaccination clinics such as Vaxcen for more information. Call Vaxcen at 412-2493.