Heeding Your Mother's Advice

Remember your mother's advice on staying healthy? My mother would always tell us, "Wash your hands and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze." Seems as though mothers were right in this advice (and probably most of the advice they gave us). The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that there have been 68 confirmed cases of human swine flu infection in the United States as of April 28. As you already know, from stories in the media, human cases of swine flu infection have been reported internationally, too. The CDC is working closely with officials in states where the infection has been identified. They are also working with officials in Canada, Mexico and with the World Health Organization. Heed your mother's advice, wash your hands frequently, sanitize your telephones, door knobs, computer keyboards and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, please refrain from going out in public. For more information, check out the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu/, or your local health department. Remember:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water; alcohol-based cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Avoid contact with infected people.
• If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home and limit contact with others.

Take care of yourself and remember your mother's advice.