The Amherst Public Health Department continues to work closely with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the CDC in monitoring the situation locally and nationally. “So far, the severity of illness we’re seeing in this country is similar to what we’re seeing with seasonal flu," said Dr. Richard Besser, Acting Director of the CDC. “While we’re not out of the woods, we are seeing some encouraging signs.”
Given the relatively mild course the disease has demonstrated thus far, the CDC is now advising that individuals with mild illness stay at home to recover. However, anyone with concerns is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
Amherst Public Health Director Epi Bodhi advises residents to continue to take the following precautions:
- wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands;
- if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph/swineflu
For more information, contact Epi Bodhi at 259-3077 or visit the Amherst Health Department blog: amhersthealth.blogspot.com.
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