Emergency Alert: H1N1 Flu

For the most recent update, see the CDC Website.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working closely with state and local officials to investigate the human cases of H1N1 influenza. It is important to remember that humans cannot contract H1N1 flu from eating pork.  The correct name of this flu is H!N1.  Flu is a respiratory disease, similar to any other flu, and can only be contracted while in direct contact with another infected person.

OSU Extension plays a key role in the effort to educate the public and will help to limit the potential negative impact to the agricultural industry.

Recommendations for Prevention:

CDC recommends the following precautionary measures for people residing in these states.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

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

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

There is no vaccine available at this time, so it is important for people living in these areas to take steps to prevent spreading the virus to others.

If people are ill, they should stay at home and limit contact with others.