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Beating The Flu This WinterAs well as having a flu shot before winter, all Victorians can take a number of basic actions to minimise catching or spreading coughs and colds, Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Neville Goodwin said today. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 1st June 2006 - Back to News "Handwashing is one of the most effective ways of reducing the spread of germs that cause respiratory disease," Cr Goodwin said.
"Proper hand washing is a simple, yet proven way of reducing the spread of germs that can lead to illness, visits to the doctor and absences from work.
Cr Goodwin said that it was important to minimise the chance of catching the flu.
"People get very worried these days with all the talk about pandemics and bird flu," said Cr Goodwin.
"But instead of getting caught up in a panic, the best thing we all can do is remember some very basic hygiene."
"Handwashing should be second nature to everyone, especially at key times such as before eating, after going to the toilet, after handling pets and changing nappies.
"Adopting a cough etiquette can also minimise the spread of influenza like illnesses," said Cr Goodwin.
"People should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, especially in confined spaces such as public transport, theatres and at crowded sporting events.
"After coughing or sneezing, used tissues should be disposed of properly," Cr Goodwin said.
The Department of Human Services has provided the following advice on handwashing, hygiene and dealing with influenza infections:
Handwashing is a simple step-by-step process:
- Wet hands with warm water and apply soap;
- Lather for 10 to 15 seconds;
- Rinse hands under running water;
- Dry hands with a clean towel;
- During the lather, pay particular attention to the backs of hands and fingers, fingernails, fingertips and the webbing between fingers.
If you have the flu, you should avoid public places and close contact with others, especially children. This includes not going to work, shopping, school or any mass gathering when ill and avoiding sharing cups and cutlery with others.
Symptoms of the flu include: sudden fever, headache, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose.
The virus can cause a mild or severe illness depending on the type of influenza virus and the age and general health of the affected person. It may take three days to show symptoms when you catch the flu and symptoms may last up to a week.
The flu and other winter coughs and colds are easily spread through tiny droplets that are released through talking, coughing and sneezing. The droplets containing the virus may infect someone else by coming into contact with their eyes, mouth or nose.
These droplets can also land on and contaminate surfaces, such as tables, cups, pens and toys. Someone else may then become infected by handling the contaminated object and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Cr Goodwin said anyone seeking further information on influenza could visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au or www.health.vic.gov.au/ideas. For information on local vaccinations, visit Council’s website www.basscoast.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Health Office on 5671 2211 or 5951 3311.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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