Health department issues pandemic flu preparedness guide for H1N1

Officials with the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health announced today the availability of a new version of its pandemic flu resource guide devoted to H1N1.

The eight-page booklet, Pandemic Flu Preparedness: A Guide for Families, outlines the common-sense steps people can take to protect themselves from the H1N1 flu. In it, readers will get more information on the virus, a list of medicines and other supplies to keep at home, a family health and emergency card, and other important tips.

“Everyone should know the magnitude of what can happen during a flu pandemic and what actions to take to help lessen the negative impact on their family and their community,” says Allen County Health Commissioner Dr. Deborah McMahan. “We hope people will follow the recommendations in this booklet to help protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Some of the sections in the booklet include:

• Pandemic Flu 101 – an overview of pandemic flu and how it is different from seasonal flu, as well as a short list of Frequently Asked Questions.
• Is it the Flu? – information on distinguishing flu from other respiratory illnesses. The section also includes recommendations for treating your symptoms at home and what symptoms should prompt a call or visit to a doctor.
• Pandemic Supply List – a checklist of food, medicine and other emergency supplies to keep on hand, and tips for what to do in case of a power outage.

The booklet, prepared by Fort Wayne Newspapers, will be distributed with the Journal Gazette on Sunday, Oct. 11.  A Spanish-language version will also be mailed next week to Hispanic households in Allen County.

Both versions will also be available on the Web at www.fightheflu.org and in area retail stores and other public locations.

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