Swine (H1N1) Flu Information

Where should you go for information?

The Centers for Disease Control site is very useful.
It discusses the national and international situation. It offers information about vaccination, for special populations, and general information you can explore to better understand the situation.


The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has a very informative website and a great booklet with lots of information, thanks to Helen Caulton Harris, the head of the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services


The City of Springfield has a very detailed website about Swine Flu and city specific policies and procedures are listed. This includes information about school closing and dismissal decisions, as well as data sheets

What are the symptoms of flu?
The MDPH says:
"The most common flu symptoms are:
• Sudden onset of fever
• Tiredness or weakness
• Body aches
• Dry cough"
If you have all these symptoms, MDPH says "stay home!"


How is the Flu Spread?
The flu spreads mostly through droplets from the mouth, nose, and throat.

Wash your hands with soap and hot water for as long as it takes you to sing "Happy Birthday to You" twice.
Use hand sanitizer, especially after sharing keyboards or moving from desk to desk.
No tissue? Sneeze into your sleeve - (Cough into your sleeve, too!)
Clean surfaces that sick people are around with disinfectant.