Remember back in 2009 when school was canceled for multiple days due to the H1N1 flu virus? The Center for Disease Control(CDC) reported that in the year of the Swine Flu pandemic, from April 2009 to April 2010, about 12,470 deaths were related to the dangerous disease.
Guess what’s back. The CDC reports that the H1N1 virus is once again the most prevalent strain of the flu in the US.
The virus is back, targeting younger victims, and has spread through no less than 50% of Alabama’s population, along with those of 34 other states. This is surprising because H1N1 has been well integrated into the variety of flu viruses that spread during the flu season and was included in this season’s flu shot. But flu shots make no difference when people don’t take them.
Fox news reports that just over a third of the population between ages 18 and 65 has taken the flu shot, leaving the rest of the population open for higher chances of contracting and spreading the disease. Although some chose not to receive the shot in October when it would be most helpful, everyone is still encouraged to get immunized.
Bob Jones senior, Sarah Bignault, daughter of two doctors states, “Three people younger than 40 died at my mom’s hospital.” She explains how her parents now make her and her sisters use hand gel more often and reprimand them when they touch their faces because most germs are spread through indirect contact with a person’s eyes, nose, and mouth.
If you have not already received the shot or are currently unable to get one, the CDC recommends the common sense approach to avoiding illness.
· Stay away from those who you know are sick to avoid contracting the virus.
· If you are sick, stay home. Don’t put others at risk. You can get your classwork from friends or your teacher after you return.
· Wash your hands often, particularly after you cough or sneeze.
· Germs are spread most through contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth, so avoid touching them to avoid spreading any viruses you have to others from your hands.
· And cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Having dealt with his entire family contracting the flu, Connor Sawyer, a Bob Jones senior, sends a message to anyone who wants to come to school despite knowing that they’re sick.
“While I appreciate your dedication to school, go home. You look terrible.”
These tips may not guarantee that you will not get sick, but it will definitely help. In this uncommonly serious flu season, don’t take chances. Take measures to protect yourself and others from the miserable disease.
