As more cases of H1N1 flu are confirmed across the country, the need for awareness and preparation becomes more critical. New Jersey’s Department of Health (DOH) has recently made available a program targeted to all citizens in an attempt to increase awareness of flu symptoms, preventative measures that can be taken, and preparation for the possibility of a pandemic. The program is available in print or on-line versions in English and Spanish.Each of the 6 modules that comprise the total program may be viewed separately for your convenience.
The expected program outcomes are for participants to:
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Understand the impact a flu pandemic may have in a community and what community leaders may need to do to reduce the impact
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Be able to develop a Pandemic Flu Personal Emergency Plan
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Know how to reduce your risk of getting the flu and spreading it to others
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Know how to provide flu care at home
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Understand where you can get help for the emotional stress a flu pandemic may cause
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Know how to identify reliable sources of public health information
The New Jersey Department of Health encourages all citizens to take advantage of the Pan Flu Awareness Program, which is posted on their website at: http://nj.gov/health/training/panflu
For more information:
What do I do if I contract the H1N1 virus?
· Stay home for at least 48 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.)
· Keep away from others as much as possible. This is to keep from making others sick.
· Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated.
· Dishes can be done in dishwasher or with hot soapy water.
· Throw away tissues and other disposable items used by the sick person in the trash. Wash your hands after touching used tissues and similar waste.
· Have everyone in the household wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, containing 60% or more alcohol, are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
