Information on Swine Flu

With the news focused on the growing outbreak of swine flu in the United States and across the world, many across Queens and the Bronx are concerned about its impact on their health and the well-being of their families and friends. I’d like to share with you some basic information about swine flu and the best ways to protect yourself and your family from this potentially harmful illness.

Cases of swine flu have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) across the nation, including in Queens. Right now, medical experts are saying there is no cause for alarm because all confirmed cases in the United States have been mild and without serious complications.

Below is some basic information on the swine flu, including some simple, easy ways you can protect yourself and your family – through frequent hand-washing, avoiding close contact with those who are ill and by keeping up to date on the latest information. With just a few clicks, you can access the best information available from national experts.

As always, if you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My offices can be reached at 718-779-1400 (Queens) or 718-931-1400 (Bronx).

SWINE FLU: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is the "swine flu"?
A: "Swine flu" is a common name given to a current strain of the influenza virus that is causing illness in Mexico, the United States, and many other countries across the world. This particular strain of flu virus is believed to have mutated from a similar influenza virus that primarily affects swine, hence the name "swine flu."

Q: What are the symptoms of swine flu?
A: Symptoms of swine flu are the same as any flu, including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Q: How does swine flu spread?
A: Just like the regular flu, swine flu is spread through close contact with someone who is sick – by touching, or being in close proximity when an ill person is sneezing or coughing. Additionally, individuals may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it (think high traffic objects such as doorknobs, railings, etc.) and then touching their mouth or nose.

Q: How can I protect myself from swine flu?
A: Here are the best ways to avoid getting or spreading swine influenza:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
• Encourage all people to cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people
• If you get sick, limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

Q: Who is at risk for swine flu?
A: Anyone who has come into close contact with a person infected with swine flu has the potential to become infected.

Q: What should I do if I have flu-like symptoms?
A: Anyone experiencing fever, cough or sore throat should stay home from work or school for at least seven days, and not return until one to two days after the symptoms end. Wash your hands frequently. And, as always, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. You do not need to go to the hospital for mild illness, but anyone with severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should seek health care and treatment immediately.

Q: Is swine flu treatable?
A: Yes, there are many medications available through your doctor that can help if you are infected with swine flu. Some drugs such as anti-retroviral medication work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms).

Q: What happens when the Federal Government declares a public health emergency?
A: During public health events such as this, it is common for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to declare a public health emergency. This declaration enables the federal government to quickly give out resources to state and local governments to gather information, identify infected people and to monitor the spread of the illness.

Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Toll-free hotlines:

• The New York State Government Hotline: 1-800-808-1987
• New York City Hotline: 311
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 1-800-232-4636

Website Resources:

• New York City Health Department: http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • English: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu
  • Spanish: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/espanol
• Frequently Asked Questions: Is it a cold, or is it the flu?: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/flu-cold-symptoms

New Media Resources:

• CDC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CDCemergency