Swine Flu Facts

From Johanna Hicks

Agri-Life Extension Agent

 

 

The April 2009 Influenza Outbreak

This influenza outbreak has been called
swine flu, H1N1, and North American Influenza.

 

The virus is spreading from person to person. Early investigations indicated that none of the people infected in the

U.S. had contact with swine.

People cannot get this disease from eating pork. The virus is not spread by food.

To protect yourself and others:

         Wash you hands often or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.

         Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose, and eyes.

         Don't share drinking glasses or eating utensils with others.

         Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

         Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.

         If you have flu symptoms, see your doctor right away. Do not go to school or work.

         Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve so viruses are trapped in the fabric of your
          clothing and you do not contaminate your hands. If you cough or sneeze into a tissue,

          throw it away immediately. Then wash your hands.

For Details and updates on the flu outbreak, visit the following websites.

         Texas Department of State Health Services  - www.dshs.state.tx.us/

         Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

 

If you own swine, follow these practices to prevent the disease from infecting your herd:

         Workers should shower before entering swine facilities. Clothes worn on the farm should not be

         worn off the farm.

         Workers with flu symptoms should stay home and be encouraged to see doctor immediately.

         Do not allow anyone except workers and essential service people to enter your farm. Keep all

         all international visitors away from your farm.

         Be sure animal facilities are well ventilated so inside air is recirculated as little as possible.

         Vaccinate all swine against the influenza virus.

         Contact your veterinarian if swine show signs of flu or respiratory illness, especially if the onset

         and symptoms seem unusual. Then notify the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) at 800-

         550-8242. The TAHC will help investigate human cases of flu that may be linked to swine in Texas.

         More information for swine producers can be found at these websites:

               Texas Pork Producers Council - www.texaspork.org

               National Pork Producers Council - www.nppc.org

 

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