Most of us have already heard about the recent news of swine flu, but have you thought about what it means for the seniors in your life, your aging parents or you as a caregiver? Anyone who has an aging parent or relative or a senior in the house, including all certified senior care managers, should be concerned about the recent swine flu pandemic and the potential risks for seniors. This group is at particular risk due to difficulties recovering if exposed. It is very important to ensure that all home health care aides are educated about swine flu Prevention Guidelines as prescribed by the CDC Center for Disease Control(CDC). Obtaining relevant information from all active caregivers, including recent travels and experienced flu symptoms, is a key component of prevention.
There are steps that professional and family caregivers as well as the community at large can take to decrease exposure and combat symptoms of swine flu. The Center for Disease Control is always updating their website, but the current guidelines and information about swine flu for caregivers is as follows: The symptoms for swine flu basically resembles those of the seasonal flu; fever, sore throat, cough, congestion, chills, headache, body aches and fatigue. Some patients also report diarrhea and vomiting. If you have symptoms, see your doctor or visit a community clinic. A doctor or medical provider’s diagnosis is very important and prescription antiviral drugs are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the appearance of the symptoms. If you are ill, avoid travel and do not go to work or school. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based cleaners and hand sanitizers. Remember to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and then discard the tissue.
Or if necessary, use your upper sleeve; not your hands. If you’re healthy, wash your hands often and avoid ill people. The flu’s incubation period is 24 to 48 hours. Make certain to follow any new developments regarding public health advice, such as avoiding crowds. Develop an emergency plan with the senior care caregivers. Your plan should include maintaining a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and other essentials.
Article Feeder is Sponsored by Cash for Coins the easy way to exchange euro coin.
