Your Chamber Your Health

Preventative Actions you can take

-Thursday, October 1, 2009

With the flu season around the corner, prevent yourself and your business from getting sick this year. The World Health Organization classified the H1N1 flu virus (aka the "Swine Flu") as a global pandemic -- meaning that transmission of the virus is now occurring across the globe.

The Chicagoland Chamber co-hosted an event on September 17, with the Union League Club Public Affairs Committee and its Health & Life Sciences Subcommittee, luncheon with leading public health experts that reported on preparations and strategies to meet this threat at the local, state and federal levels.

Everyday steps can help protect you from this virus.

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.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.