Fall 2006	Stay Flu-Free This Season
Preventing a flu pandemic Preventing a flu pandemic You probably have heard warnings of a potential flu pandemic. An influenza pandemic occurs when a new flu virus emerges for which humans have little or no immunity and no vaccine exists. The pandemic flu symptoms are more severe and may lead to more serious complications. However, flu pandemics are rare. There have only been three pandemics in the past century (1918, 1957 and 1968). The avian flu is a virus that’s usually transmitted between birds. The risk from avian influenza is generally low, because it usually doesn’t infect humans. However, all viruses have the ability to change. In the past four years, more than 200 humans have contracted the bird flu from contact with infected fowl. Scientists are concerned the virus could mutate to spread easily among humans. A vaccine for the avian flu is currently in development. VA is working along with other government agencies to ensure this vaccine will be available should an avian flu pandemic occur. Additionally, VA is in the process of stockpiling and studying antiviral drugs to protect veterans against potential pandemic strains of influenza. For more information, visit www.pandemicflu.gov.   For more information about the flu, log on to My Health eVet at www.myhealth.va.gov. Flu outbreaks occur almost every winter. Your best protection against getting sick is the flu vaccine, available in both a shot and a nasal spray. The vaccine takes effect in about two weeks and lasts about six months, so the time to get vaccinated is October and November. The virus typically spreads person to person, through respiratory droplets released by coughing and sneezing. You can also become infected by touching surfaces with the flu virus on it. Stop the spread of germs Reduce your chances of getting sick or passing germs to other people with these steps: Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. If possible, use a tissue, then throw it away. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If you’re not near a sink, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Rub hands together vigorously for 15 seconds. Don’t touch your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs often spread through contact with mucous membranes. If your hands pick up flu germs, passing them to your eyes, nose or mouth is a sure way to get sick. Likewise, if you have the flu and sneeze into your hand, you’ll pass germs on. Steer clear of people who are sick. And when you’re sick, keep your distance from others: Stay home from work. Flu symptoms include fever, headache, extreme fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. If you get sick, be sure to get plenty of rest and drink lots of liquids. Medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help relieve fever and muscle aches. Antiviral drugs can also ease symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu by a day and a half. The flu should be taken seriously. Complications include pneumonia, dehydration and a worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. If you develop symptoms and are concerned about your illness, especially if you’re at high risk for complications, call your VA health care provider, who may prescribe an antiviral medication.
Fall 2006 Message from Network Director | Working Together for Your Health | Reaching for the Stars Keep Your Heart Healthy | Breast Cancer Prevention | Stay Flu-Free VA News and Updates | Wellness Programs

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