Swine Flu:What is it? How does it spread? How can we prevent it or protect against it?

Yes, the health topic on everyone’s mind is swine flu. What is it? How does it spread? Most importantly, how can I/we prevent it or protect against it?? As there are many wonderful sites that are currently addressing these issues (such as the CDC's or Wikipedia or the NLM's MedlinePlus site), we’ll be brief with the first two questions…

Q: What is it?

A: The most basic explanation is that it’s a mutated respiratory disease caused by a strain of influenza A (H1N1) that is commonly found in pigs.

Q: How does it spread?

A: In humans, the swine flu is spread in pretty much the same way that seasonal flu is spread: from person to person via contact with droplets from the mouth when a person sneezes or coughs. However, it's not yet known exactly how easily it's actually being spread.

Q: How can I/we prevent it or protect against it?

A: Just as you would prevent yourself from getting a traditional cold or flu: wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use alcohol based hand cleaners; stay in good health (eating nutritiously, getting plenty of sleep, drinking plenty of fluids); avoid contact with those that are already sick; and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

The following is a list of a few of the products we carry that can assist you with regard to sanitizing and disinfecting:

• Lysol Brand III Disinfectant Spray
• Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
• Whistle Degreaser/Disinfectant Spray
• Purell Original Instant Hand Sanitizer Pump
• Dial Complete Antibacterial Foam Hand Wash
• Vinyl Gloves
• Kleenex Antiviral Facial Tissue
  

Please visit our website for a complete list of available items.

Thank you for reading!

Dave, Ellen, Eric and Amy