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How to protect yourself and others from Influenza A (H1N1) E-mail

How is Influenza A (H1N1) spread?

Influenza A (H1N1) is spread from person to person through infected droplets when an infected person sneezes, talks, coughs or spits.

If these droplets land on surfaces like a table, cutlery, door handles and another person touches them, and then touches their own mouth or nose, they can catch the virus.The virus can survive on hard surfaces or on cloth or paper for several hours.

What are the symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1)?

The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) are similar to seasonal influenza and may include:

  • Sudden onset of fever (38 degrees C)
  • Headache
  • Lethargy
  • Coughing
  • Sore throat
  • Running nose
  • Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea

How should I protect myself from catching Influenza A (H1N1)?

The best way to protect yourself and others is to practice good personal hygiene at all times and to teach good hygiene habits to your children.

The Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Cambodia has advised the following public hygiene instructions:

flu

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue

pandemic_handwashing

Wash your hands often with soap

pandemic_nospit

Do not spit in public

 

Should I wear a surgical mask?

Wearing a mask is unlikely to help prevent the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) infection. The most important way to protect yourself and others is to follow good personal hygiene habits.

Is there a vaccine for Influenza A (H1N1)?

No. There is no vaccine for Influenza A.

The WHO is working with manufacturers to develop a vaccine however, this will take 4-6 months to develop and will then take further time to produce and then distribute in adequate quantities around the world.

What medicines are available for treatment?

Most of the reported cases of Influenza A (H1N1) have recovered fully from the disease without requiring medical attention.

The Royal Government has a reserve of medication in case of a pandemic influenza outbreak in Cambodia.

What should people do if they think they have Influenza A (H1N1)?

Members of the public who are experiencing influenza symptoms, especially those who have travelled recently to an infected area are strongly advised to stay at home and phone the Ministry of Health's Pandemic Preparedness Hotline; 012 489 981 or 089 669 567 for further advice.

Where should I go for more information?

During public health emergencies, it is important to regularly seek accurate information about the situation from reliable official sources.

For official information about the global status of Influenza A (H1N1) and for technical guidance for health administrators, health professionals and the general public please visit:

WHO Global Wesbite

For local information the source of official information is the Ministry of Health

 

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