H1N1 Swine Flu Update 

For the latest information please visit the Marin County Office of Education's SWINE FLU UPDATE

H1N1 Swine Flu Facts:

·         Swine flu is a respiratory (breathing) infection caused by influenza viruses found in pigs.  It is a new influenza virus causing illness in humans.

·         Symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.  Please see your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.  Most illnesses in the United States have been mild.

·         Swine flu is spread person to person through coughing and sneezing from infected people.  It cannot be transmitted by eating pork or pork products.

The most effective precautions for you and your family to take are the following:

·         If you are sick, stay home from school or work to avoid contact with other people and risk infecting them.  Stay home until 24 hours after symptoms have subsided without the use of fever-reducing medications.

·         Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.  

·         Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

·         Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

·         Avoid close contact with sick people.