Greenville Business Magazine 2009 November : Page 16››columns Has the Flu Entered Your Workplace? BY MICHAEL ALDAY, M.D., M.P.H. MEDICAL DIRECTOR, REGIONAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND MINOR CARE If you are sick, and you must be around other people,wear a mask to protect others from becoming infected. While we are all quite familiar with the usual seasonal flu, there are new and different questions arising concerning the H1N1 flu. Who’s at the greatest risk? The high-risk groups recommended to receive the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine include: ›› Pregnant women because they are at higher risk of complications and can potentially provide protec- tion to infants who cannot be vaccinated ›› Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than six months of age because younger infants are at higher risk of influenza-related complications and cannot be vaccinated. ›› Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel because this can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients. ›› Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza H ow will the business community deal with the flu? Good question. But, that’s just the beginning of the questions. What’s the best way to avoid getting it? And, who’s most at risk? What’s the best way to manage it if the flu makes an appearance? This fall,we are contending with two types of flu: seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu. Both have similar symptoms, but as fall and winter progress,we’ll continue to answer more questions about the new H1N1 strain.Keep in mind, vaccines for both types are available. The flu differs from the common cold in that the onset of symptoms is not gradual – but sudden. For instance, you may feel fine in the morning – but very sick by the after- noon. Symptoms for both types of flu may include chills, fever, muscle aches, headache,weakness, loss of appetite, sore throat, cough and nasal congestion. Some good rules to follow during this “double-flu” season include frequent hand-washing with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Also, covering your mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, or coughing or sneezing into your upper sleeve if you have no tissue, is the best way to prevent the virus from spreading. 16 GREENVILLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2009 ›› All people from six months through 24 years of age So, if you get either type of flu, here are a number of steps to take to help alleviate symptoms and control the spread of the virus. In addition to plenty of rest and fluids, flu sufferers may find over-the-counter pain relievers for aches and fever and decongestants for coughs offer symptomatic relief. Clear liquids and a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) can help those who are nauseous. Again, frequent hand- washing, covering your mouth or wearing a surgical mask are the best ways to prevent the virus from spreading. In most individuals who are otherwise healthy, the flu goes away within seven to 10 days. If you have symptoms and they are getting worse, even with following the above measures, you may need to make an appointment with your primary care physician. Your own doctor is the best resource you have to diagnose and treat the flu. If you need to see a physician after hours or on weekends, go to a Minor Care Center. Minor Care facilities are designed to help with overflow from physicians’ offices and to serve patients after hours and on weekends. ■ >>columns - Has the Flu Entered Your Workplace?Michael Alday, M.D., M.P.H.How will the business community deal with the flu? Good question. But, that’s just the beginning of the questions. What’s the best way to avoid getting it? And, who’s most at risk? What’s the best way to manage it if the flu makes an appearance? Publication List |
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