Opinion - Whatcom View

POSTED: Monday, Nov. 02, 2009

Red cross now focusing on swine flu spread

Along with kids returning to school, a change in weather, and the sound of leaves crunching beneath our feet, fall also ushers in the beginning of seasonal influenza. This year, it will be made more challenging with the introduction of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus.

It is important for you to know that the American Red Cross in Skagit Valley and Whatcom County has been working to address the health and safety needs of our community in anticipation of the impending influenza season. We believe that major crises can be averted by planning ahead.

In Whatcom County of late, H1N1 cases for the most part have been similar to seasonal influenza symptoms - generally mild and not requiring hospitalization. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that serious cases of pneumonia and influenza were low and within the bounds for what was expected in the summer months.

Please know that to prepare for the increased dissemination of influenza, the Red Cross will be working with government officials on the outbreak and stands ready to help as appropriate. We encourage simple actions that everyone can practice to slow the spread of the flu and reduce its impact, whether the viruses involved are seasonal or pandemic influenza.

Frequent and proper hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can decrease or prevent the spread of the flu. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze is another healthy habit, as is keeping your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth to keep influenza germs from entering your body.

Also, to minimize the spread of influenza, people feeling sick are strongly encouraged to stay home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medications.

Consult with a health care provider promptly if you display any serious influenza-like symptoms, including fever for three days or more, severe sore throat or cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.

Red Cross is focused on educating the public on influenza preparedness and safety, and ensuring that we can continue to provide disaster services to those in need.

Our work is dictated by the needs of the families, of the neighborhoods, and of the collective individuals and organizations that live and work in Whatcom County and Skagit Valley. In addition to offering lessons on health and safety, we also provide disaster relief, armed forces emergency services and international social services, and volunteer and youth recruitment training.

If you would like more information or have questions on the efforts of the Mt. Baker Chapter of the American Red Cross regarding influenza prevention or regarding any of the services we offer, please call 733-3290 or visit our website at mtbredcross.org.

Maureen Enegren is executive director of the Mt. Baker Chapter of the American Red Cross.