PSA time - H1N1 virus

First up, a note from Congressman Harry Mitchell's office.

From an email -

As a father and a grandfather, I know how important it is to keep your family healthy. As we head into flu season, I want to make sure that you have the information you need to help avoid catching or spreading airborne infections.

We can all take action now to protect ourselves and our families throughout the fall and into the winter. As a result, I've updated the H1N1 Flu Information Hub on my website to help you get the correct and most current information regarding the H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu. It includes important resources regarding influenza viruses and key tips for prevention and keeping your family healthy. It also includes links to agencies like the Arizona Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization and other agencies that manage different aspects of H1N1.

In addition, should you or a family member become infected, my H1N1 Flu Information Hub has key information regarding the steps you should take. One of the best ways to avoid the flu is to take everyday steps to stay healthy, as prevention is the first line of defense. Here are 5 simple steps CDC recommends during this year’s flu season:

•Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

•Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.

•Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

•Stay home if you get sick to limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

•Eat well, be active, get plenty of rest.

I encourage you to visit my H1N1 Flu Information Hub and I will continue to update so you and your family can stay informed throughout this year’s flu season.

Sincerely,

Harry

In addition to available online resources, many of which are linked to at Congressman Mitchell's website, the City of Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Fire Department are holding a number of public presentations on preparing for flu season.

From the press release -

Free community presentations are being hosted by the Scottsdale Fire Department this month to help residents and businesses prepare for the H1N1 flu. Discussion topics include steps to take to stay healthy, signs and symptoms of the flu, when to seek emergency medical care, tips for creating an emergency plan and how you can stay up-to-date on the latest information. Free 90-minute community presentations are scheduled for:

•Noon to 1:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 10, at Rio Montana Park; 11180 N. 132nd St.
•12:30 to 2 p.m. Oct. 17 at Granite Reef Senior Center; 1700 N. Granite Reef Road
•9:30 to 11 a.m. Oct. 24 at the Witzeman Public Safety Building; 8401 E. Indian School Road
•Noon to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Rio Montana Park; 11180 N. 132nd St.
•7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 27 at Eldorado Park Community Center; 2311 N. Miller Road
•2:30 to 4 p.m. Nov. 4 at La Mirada Desert Park; 8950 E. Pinnacle Peak Road
•6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 at Rio Montana Park; 11180 N. 132nd St.
•9 to 10:30 a.m., Nov. 14 at the Witzeman Public Safety Building; 8401 E. Indian School Road

Advance registration is strongly encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome. To sign up, visit http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/fire/H1N1.

For more information or to schedule a group presentation, contact Patty Jo Angelini at (480) 312-1815 or email pangelini@ScottsdaleAZ.gov.

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