In the Radiology Department, it is very important to be aware of this checklist in order to protect everybody’s health and general welfare, especially when we do some radiographic examinations (i.e. chest x-ray) to patients who are suspected to be swine flu-infected.

Now the CDC or the Center for Disease Control has released the swine flu checker to help the people stop the disease. Here are some easy and effective ways to fight against it:

• 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. Germs spread this way.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.

• Do not not to panic when the word “pandemic” is mentioned. Refer to the above symptom checker list or call your doctor if you are concerned. However, being aware and educated is your first line of defense. Your family doctor is your greatest resource and teaching children to keep their hands clean and away from their mouth and eyes is of ultimate importance. If there are elderly people in your neighborhood or in your family, take the time to check on them to make sure they are healthy and know about flu prevention.