Wearing A Mask
Q: Do masks really protect against swine flu?
A: We got this information from the Centers for Disease Control. There are two main types of masks. Simple surgical masks keep the germs in, meaning they prevent someone spreading germs by coughing or sneezing. Then there are N-95 masks. These are respirator masks that keep germs out. However, N-95 masks need to be carefully fitted over the nose and mouth with a tight seal, which can make it harder to breathe. And there's no definitive evidence that masks will keep people from getting sick, and there's been no call yet for the public to start wearing them.
Traveling to Mexico
Q: What if you've traveled to Mexico but still feel well. Do you need to see a doctor?
A: The experts say there's no need to see a doctor just because you traveled to Mexico. However, be aware of how you feel for the week following travel. If you develop fever and a cough, you should seek medical attention. Also, diarrhea is a common malady following travel. However doctors say it's unlikely to be related to swine flu.
Returned From Mexico And Have Flu Symptoms
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Q: What if you traveled to Mexico weeks ago and now have a runny nose and cough. Is that swine flu?
A: It's important to remember that not every illness is swine flu. Doctors say it's much more likely you have been exposed to a mild cold virus. If you have a fever and a cough, then it's time to see your doctor.
Best Protection
Q: What is the best way to protect to protect yourself and your family?
A: The best way for now is common sense. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue you can throw away. If you don't have a tissue, sneeze into your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. And keep your hands away from your face. There are studies that show adults touch their face 16-times per hour, and kids under two 80-times per hour.
Effective Hand washing
Q: We hear so much about hand washing, what is the most effective way to do this?
A: We turned to the Mayo Clinic to get the best information on hand washing. Hand-washing sounds simple, but you do have to do it properly. There are two ways favorite ways to wash hands, one requires soap and water, the other is using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
If you're using soap and water, the Mayo Clinic says first wet your hands with warm running water, Then apply either liquid or bar soap and lather well. Next, rub your hands vigorously together for at least 15-to-20 seconds. Scrub all the surfaces. That means back of your hands, wrists, between fingers and under your fingernails. Then rinse well, Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel, And use the towel to turn off the faucet.
Using A Hand-Sanitizer
Q: Is there a proper way to use a hand-sanitizer?
A: First, not all hand sanitizers are created equal. Some don't contain alcohol. But the Mayo Clinic says you should use only alcohol-based products, That contain at least 60-percent alcohol.
First, apply about one-half teaspoon to your hand, Then rub you hands together, And cover all surfaces until they're dry. And if your hands are visibly dirty, wash them with soap and water if available.
Children and Hand washing
Q: Are there rules for children and hand washing?
A: The Mayo Clinic says parents should teach by example and wash hands with their child. Instruct children to wash their hands for as long as it takes to sing their ABCs, Row-row-row your boat, or Happy Birthday. By the way, children can use alcohol-based sanitizers with an adults help. But the sanitizer should be completely dry before your child touches anything. That prevents ingestion of alcohol. And store the container away safely after use. And remember that hand washing is especially important for children who attend child care because they are at greater risk of respiratory and gastro-intestinal diseases.
