Get Ready

Pandemic flu summit challenges Americans to get prepared, make a video

2009-07-13T15:13:00.003-04:00

With the end of summer creeping up on us (already? boooo!), the annual seasonal flu season is also right around the corner. So what happens when seasonal flu meets the growing H1N1 flu pandemic (also know as swine flu)? Health officials have been giving this a lot of thought lately, and the White House organized the H1N1 Influenza Preparedness Summit last week at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md., to discuss the situation. The most important message of the summit? Everyone, from the government and schools to families and individuals, must be prepared.

“We ask the American people to become actively engaged with their own preparation and prevention,” said Kathleen Sebelius, U.S. secretary of health and human services, said during the summit. “It’s a responsibility we all share.”

Federal, state and local officials will be doing their part to get ready for a possible increase of H1N1 flu cases in the fall, and as individuals, we can all respond to this call in many ways:
* Wash your hands frequently — it really does help! Don’t touch your hands to your eyes, nose or mouth unless your hands are squeaky clean.
* Keep your immune system strong by exercising and eating healthy foods.
* Cover your coughs and sneezes so that you don’t spread illness to others. Stay home from work, school or camp and avoid crowds when you’re feeling under the weather. If you’re feeling really sick, go to a doctor!
* Don’t get caught up in the media hype. Stick to trusted sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Flu.gov for your information.

It’s also important that when a vaccine comes out that at-risk groups make sure and get vaccinated. A vaccine may be available by mid-October, and children, pregnant women, the elderly and health care workers will be among the first targets for the vaccine.

The flu summit also launched a new video contest on preventing H1N1 flu. Create a short public service announcement that encourages people to take steps to prevent the spread of the flu and you can win $2,500. The deadline for submissions is Aug. 17, so sharpen up those scripts and schedule your actors now to help fight the flu and get America prepared!

Fire safety season

2009-07-10T11:08:00.004-04:00

Stop, drop and roll. For many of us, these fire safety tips are nearly as familiar as our ABCs. But as important as these instructions are, it is even more important to prevent fires from occurring in the first place. Learning safe fire practices can help.

In parts of the western United States, July brings dry conditions and summer storms that provide perfect environments for dangerous fires that can rumble through forests, hillsides and homes. Whether you are camping in the woods or barbequing in your backyard you should build fires away from nearby trees or bushes and have a way to put out the fire quickly and completely if it looks as though it may be getting out of control. Also, try to avoid open burning and never leave a fire unattended.

Prepare your home as well. Install smoke alarms and test them once a month. Replace the batteries when needed and replace your smoke alarms at least every 10 years. Additional safety measures include creating a 30-foot safety zone in which you limit dry vegetation around your house. You can also use fire-resistant siding, remove flammable debris from under decks and porches and avoid flammable roofing materials like wood, shake and shingle.

Even with these preparations in place, it is still vital to prepare for the worst. If a fire does reach your home, having an escape plan could be the difference between life and death. Establish at least two ways to escape from every room of your home and select a location outside your house where everyone in your family will meet. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

Fire can ruin homes and devastate lives. However, with smart fire safety practices and good preparation, you can help reduce the chance these disasters will affect your loved one and property. After all, better to prepare for and prevent fire than having to stop, drop and roll.

Prepare for the Fourth of July and kiss your worries goodbye

2009-07-02T16:06:00.006-04:00

Pop! Bang! Kaboom!

The sound of fireworks means Fourth of July and summer celebrations are upon us again with parades, festivals and other large outdoor events. That means lots of fun…and also lots of people.
For many, taking part in busy activities during summer heat can bring out anxieties about safety and health. If so, have no worries. You can still safely wade through the crowds and celebrate Independence Day. Just be prepared and be aware.

For large warm weather events, like Fourth of July parades and fireworks, learn about the event you will be attending and plan ahead. What items can you bring? Where is the event located? How long will it last? Answering these questions can help you prepare and guide how to act at such events.

It is also important to prepare for your day with summer weather in mind. Check the forecast. Pack umbrellas, fans, bottled water or any other items based on weather conditions. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, which can increase the risk of dehydration in the summer heat. Apply sunscreen and wear light breathable clothing to help stop harmful UV rays from reaching your skin.

At events, it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, know where the closest exits are. If you feel you are in any sort of danger or unsafe environment, make sure to leave the location as quickly, yet calmly as possible.

Being aware of your own limitations is just as important as being aware of your surroundings. If you start to feel dehydrated, tired or overheated, stop and take time to care for yourself, even if it means cutting your celebrations short.

The Fourth of July is a day for fun, and with these tips, you can be sure your celebrations remain enjoyable.

Graphic courtesy Microsoft Clipart Gallery

Prepare your car for emergencies and you’ll be ready to go when it counts

2009-06-26T12:37:00.006-04:00

There’s always lots of talk about how to prepare your home for disasters, which is important. But what if you have to evacuate? When preparing for an emergency, don’t forget your getaway vehicle! Here are some tips to prepare your car for emergencies:

• Keep it stocked: A car that is well-prepared for emergencies should carry nourishment. Be sure and always keep a few gallons of water in your car, as well as food. Choose foods that are shelf-stable and can store well in the extreme temperatures of a car.

• Be prepared to go: For your car, jumper cables, a tow chain and flares are always good things to have on board. If there are reports of a weather disaster headed your way, check the air in your tires (including the spare!) and fill up the gas tank of your car. Keep the tank at least half-filled as long as the threat remains, as the last thing you want is to run out of gas while sitting in long lines of evacuating traffic.

• Think ahead: For survival in the vehicle, you should have a flashlight and batteries, a fire extinguisher, a whistle, cash and change, vital medications, rain gear, blankets, tarps, toilet paper and any special-needs items for infants or people with disabilities. A cell phone charger that plugs into your car’s lighter outlet will also come in handy. Also be sure to include an old-school paper map, in case you evacuate to an area you aren’t familiar with and your Tom-Tom is on the fritz-fritz. Mark out emergency evacuation routes ahead of time.

Check on your car supplies every six months to make sure nothing has leaked or spoiled. (Use daylight saving time as a reminder!)

Graphic courtesy iStockphoto

Don’t be scared, be prepared! Book offers tips for preparedness

2009-06-19T15:16:00.013-04:00

Don’t be scared, be prepared! That’s the mantra of Kathy Harrison, author of Just In Case: How to Be Self-Sufficient When the Unexpected Happens, a family-friendly preparedness guide.

To be prepared for anything from a flood to a pandemic, Harrison says that everyone should have at least the following basics:

* plans for communicating and reuniting with family during a crisis;
* a one-week supply of food and water (PDF) for each household member;
* a portable radio with extra batteries;
* back-up copies of all important documents stored in a safe place;
* an emergency car kit with water, light sticks, road flares, unbreakable cup or mug, wool blankets, etc.;
* a back-up heat source (for cold climates);
* emergency lighting, such as flashlights, candles and kerosene lamps; and
* an evacuation kit for each household member.
When putting together your evacuation kit — a backpack is a great way to store and tote emergency supplies — ask yourself: If I had to live out of this bag for three days, what would I need to stay safe and healthy? Here are some things that Harrison’s book recommends: flashlight, trash bags, whistle, water jug, water purification tablets, soap and washcloth, space blanket, energy bars, first aid kit, matches, a change of clothing, toilet paper, insect repellant and sunscreen.

If the idea of gathering all of these supplies sounds unrealistic, use the “OAR” system, suggests Harrison:

* Organize — Think about your risks (are hurricanes common where you live?) and plan storage spaces for all the supplies you’ll need.

* Acquire — Develop a schedule for building up your supply of all the food, water and additional items you’ll need during an emergency.

* Rotate — Occasionally rotate your stored items with your normal supply to make sure food is fresh and medications haven’t expired.

Just In Case also includes tips for improving your “skills for independence.” It teaches you how to do cool things like purify water using basic household items, dehydrate and can food, and even make your own cheese and yogurt.

The idea of preparing for an emergency can be overwhelming and scary. Books like this one provide lots of useful tips that make it easy to be prepared. You may want one on your bookshelf, just in case.

Global health officials prepare for H1N1 spread as pandemic alert level raised

2009-06-12T15:52:00.021-04:00

"The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic."
— Margaret Chan, director-general of the World Health Organization, Thursday, June 11, 2009

Needless to say, that news generally is not how you’d like to start the weekend. But there's no need to panic. While the World Health Organization raised the global pandemic alert on June 11 to phase 6 — its highest level — U.S. health officials stressed that the decision is a "reflection of the spread of the (H1N1) virus, not the severity of illness caused by the virus."

So, what does phase 6 mean? According to the World Health Organization, the designation means there is now ongoing community-level outbreaks of the H1N1 virus, sometimes referred to as swine flu, across the globe. As of June 11, CDC reported almost 18,000 confirmed and probable cases of H1N1 in every state, plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The same day, WHO reported 30,000 confirmed cases in 74 countries.

But let's shed some perspective: During yesterday’s news conference, WHO's Chan noted that "no previous pandemic has been detected so early or watched so closely, in real-time, right at the very beginning. The world can now reap the benefits of investments, over the last five years, in pandemic preparedness." U.S. officials said they’re preparing for a return of H1N1 during regular flu season in the fall.

The change in the pandemic alert level "was expected and doesn't change what we have been doing here in the United States to prepare for and respond to this public health challenge," according to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

And last but not least, U.S. and global health officials urge you to keep on keepin' on — that is, keep up that handwashing, stay home if you're sick and stay informed. For all the squeaky clean tips as well as regular updates, visit CDC's H1N1 page and APHA's influenza Web site.

Home, Safe Home

2009-06-05T20:07:00.003-04:00

Ever forgotten to turn off the stove after cooking a meal? Or carelessly burned yourself with hot water? Ever get shocked when handling an electronic appliance or extension cord?

Despite the many comforts of home, the places we live can also present many hazards; some serious and potentially life threatening. In fact, injury in the home accounts for more than 21 million medical visits and 20,000 deaths each year.

To help reduce these alarming statistics, June is recognized as Home Safety Month where a special focus is placed on safety and preparedness in the home environment. As part of the observance, the Home Safety Council provides resources and information to assist families in reducing the risk from leading hazards such as falls, poisonings, fires and burns, choking and drowning. It also provides tips on how to be prepared in case of a disaster.

Take time this month to learn how to make the place you live safe from everyday hazards and ready in the event of an emergency. And then, rest easy knowing you have done what you can to make your home a safe home.

Get Ready Mailbag: Being prepared while on summer vacation

2009-05-29T15:33:00.003-04:00

Welcome to another installment of the Get Ready Mailbag, when we take time to answer questions sent our way by readers like you. Have a question you want answered? Send an e-mail to getready@apha.org.

Q. This summer, my family and I will be going on vacation. Are there any steps I can take to make sure we're prepared while away from home?

A. Being prepared means making sure you are ready for potential health hazards — no matter where you are. And this includes while on vacation!

There are basic steps we can all take while on vacation to stay safe. These include packing a portable emergency preparedness kit and making sure everyone knows your family's emergency contact phone number.

However, it's also important to think about where you'll be vacationing to figure out how to get ready. For instance, the beach is a popular vacation destination for families during the summer months. If you're vacationing along the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico or Caribbean between June and November, make sure you're prepared for hurricanes. Along with having a portable emergency kit ready to go, this includes mapping out an evacuation route and staying alert for warnings.

If you are traveling overseas, you should find out what sorts of natural disasters occur in your destination and prepare accordingly. Also, for many locations outside of North America, you should take steps to protect yourself from infectious diseases that might not ordinarily be a concern.

Furthermore, along with the location of your destination, it's a good idea to think about where you'll be staying and factor that into your preparedness. For instance, if you're renting a vacation home, you'll want to make sure the smoke detectors work, locate a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, and make sure you are familiar with the layout of the house in case you have to evacuate quickly. If you're staying in a high-rise hotel, take note of the nearest exits and be sure your family knows not to take the elevator in an emergency.

So just as you pack sunblock to protect yourself against harmful rays, take a few extra steps to keep you and your family safe from other possible threats while on vacation.

Planning ahead is important for hurricane preparedness

2009-05-22T10:36:00.005-04:00

If you could be any animal, wouldn't it be great to be a bird? You never have to wait in line for the restroom, you know the weather before it's on the news and if a storm approaches, it's pretty easy to evacuate. Unfortunately, as a human, preparing for a storm such as a hurricane requires more planning and information.

Hurricanes have the potential to cause flooding, destroy homes, spawn tornadoes, contaminate the water supply and cause other threats to health. During Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast in 2005, many people were left stranded without food and water and more than 1800 people died. So it is very important to stay abreast of information as a hurricane develops.

Before a hurricane hits, make sure you know where high-risk areas are in your community, where to evacuate to and what to do in the aftermath. The better you stay updated and informed during hurricane season — which is during the months of May to November — the better you will be able to prepare.

Have an out-of-town evacuation place predetermined, and make sure your gas tank is full. Develop a hurricane supply kit and "go-bag" for you and your family, including pets. Your supplies should include non-perishable food items, identification, important documents, money and necessary medications. Because of flooding, the water supply could be contaminated, so you should enough water stored to last for three to seven days — at least one gallon per person per day.

If the weather looks like it is turning bad or there is a hurricane warning in effect, keep the TV or radio on and stay up on what's happening so you'll be ready to make like a bird and leave quickly. Listen for warning sirens as well.

Hurricanes, like anything natural, can be unpredictable. But if you stay informed, you'll know what you need to do to prepare for any hurricane, despite its severity. And that's not birdbrained at all.

Play it safe outdoors this summer by being prepared

2009-05-15T16:24:00.004-04:00

As the weather gets warmer and the days longer, we’re all drawn to the great outdoors. But exposure to the elements can lead to common injuries that may require first aid. Take some time this summer and get prepared so everyone stays happy and healthy in the warm weather.

If you are planning to be outside for a long time — whether it’s for a hike, fishing trip or family picnic — bring a first-aid kit stocked with gloves, bandages and other supplies. That way if something goes wrong, you’ll have the tools you need to provide basic medical attention, at least until the real experts arrive. You can assemble a kit yourself or purchase one at a store.

Greater time spent outside also increases the risk for exposure to threats such as poison ivy and insect bites. Learning to recognize dangerous plants (leaves of three, let it be!) can reduce the chance of skin contact and allergic reactions, but be prepared by sticking some calamine lotion in your kit. Bug repellant can prevent mosquito and tick bites. If you live in an area affected by Lyme disease, learn how to protect yourself and know the symptoms in case you get a tick bite. Most cases of Lyme disease can be cured, especially if detected and treated early.

Here are a few other tips:
* Brush up on first aid for common injuries
* Every so often, take a look at your first-aid kit to make sure you have everything you need, but remember that a well-stocked first-aid kit is no replacement for medical attention.
* Keep a list of emergency phone numbers with you at all times. Make sure to include a poison control center and the number of your family doctor. If the injury is severe, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Play it safe this summer by taking a few extra steps to prepare before setting foot outside.

Help the hungry, improve preparedness without leaving your doorstop on Stamp Out Hunger Day

2009-05-08T15:57:00.002-04:00

On your way home from work today, take some time to stop at the grocery store and pick up a few extra items for those in need. You'll help improve preparedness in your community, and thanks to an upcoming national food drive, you only have to leave your contributions as far as your front door.

Tomorrow — Saturday, May 9 — is the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, the nation's largest single-day food collection event. To participate, leave bags of nonperishable, nonexpired foods next to your mailbox and your letter carrier will pick them up and deliver them to local food banks. How easy is that?

For the 15th year, the Stamp Out Hunger campaign, organized by the U.S. Postal Service, the National Association of Letter Carriers and the Campbell Soup Company, will help feed the nearly 35 million Americans who are hungry or living on the brink of hunger. Many of these people depend on food banks to ensure that they have enough to eat. In 2008, the event delivered over 73 million pounds of food.

Along with helping provide for those in need, food banks play an important part in community preparedness. If there are 35 million people who already don't have enough to eat, what will happen when a disaster such as a hurricane, a tornado or pandemic flu strikes? Demand on food banks will increase. That's why it is important to support our community food banks year-round.

Join Americans all around the country by contributing whatever you can on May 9. Whether you buy extra groceries the next time you shop or donate extra nonexpired canned goods you have in your pantry, every little bit helps and moves your local food banks one step closer to being prepared. Just leave them by your mailbox. No stamp required.

If you're not sure whether your letter carrier is participating in Stamp Out Hunger or if you live in an urban area, contact your local post office. Interested in other ways to help food banks? Read our tips and help your community prepare.

Get Ready Mailbag: Swine flu

2009-05-08T15:49:00.002-04:00

Welcome to another installment of the Get Ready Mailbag, when we take time to answer questions sent our way by readers like you. Have a question you want answered? Send an e-mail to pandemicflu@apha.org.

Q. I read that CDC has decided that schools don't have to close anymore for swine flu. Why? And does that mean swine flu is over?

A. The recent change in guidance for schools from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a result of the latest information on the H1N1 flu outbreak, which has also been called "swine flu." When the virus first appeared in the United States, outbreaks were frequently starting in schools. Also, early information from Mexico was that the virus was affecting previously healthy young adults and often resulting in respiratory failure and death.

Based on this initial information, CDC recommended that schools close when a student was infected as a way to reduce spread of a potentially severe disease. However, there are now more than 1,000 cases in 44 states, making school closure less effective. Additionally, most U.S. cases have not been any more severe than seasonal influenza. As a result, CDC has stopped recommending school closure and instead focuses on early identification of ill students and staff, staying home when sick, and good cough and hand hygiene.

Although this is good news, it's too early to say with certainty that the worst is over. Flu viruses are notoriously unstable and can change at any time to become either more harmless or more lethal. There is also a concern that this current outbreak will subside with warmer weather, only to come back in the fall and winter. Health officials are taking precautions to keep people safe while they continue to learn more.

If you have more questions about H1N1 flu, check out these FAQs from APHA.

Don’t let your tots miss their shots: Online tracker a handy helper

2009-05-01T13:36:00.004-04:00

If you're a parent, you're no doubt familiar with the seemingly endless trips to the doctor to have your child vaccinated. Even if you can rattle off the alphabet soup of names of the vaccines your child has received — MMR! DTaP! Hib! — there is a good chance you can't remember which one is next, and when.

While vaccines have been able to keep disease rates low in the United States, missing childhood vaccinations is a bad idea. According to info released as part of National Infant Immunization Week— held April 25-May 2 — more than 20 percent of the nation's 2-year-olds are not fully immunized against infectious diseases they are at risk for.

"The unnecessary death of even one child from a vaccine-preventable disease is tragic," according to Anne Schuchat, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

One of the most common reasons parents miss shots for their kids is the frequent schedule. By the age of 2, children receive as many as 26 shots guarding against 14 diseases, and keeping track of all these appointments on top of everything else going on in your life can be tricky.

So how to keep track of all those shots? Cue CDC's online vaccination tracker, a nifty tool that helps parents plan ahead. Just enter your child's birth date to see which vaccines your child should have already received, and which she or he should receive in the near future.

The CDC tracker will also tell you what all those shots are for. Print out the schedule and keep it handy so that you can look at it when you make appointments and bring it along to your doctor visits. If you use an online calendar such as Outlook or Google, transfer the dates and set your calendar reminders to pop up before the vaccination dates do.

Still need help on vaccines? Contact your local health provider or physician, or read this helpful parents' guide from CDC. Don't let your tots miss their shots!

Image courtesy of the CDC

La importancia de tener las vacunas al día

2009-04-28T14:49:00.004-04:00

Today's blog entry is an article by Diego Chaves-Gnecco MD, MPH, SALUD PARA NIÑOS Program Director & Founder in honor of National Infant Immunization Week.To read the article in English, you can use an online translator.

Es extremamente importante que todo adulto o niño tenga todas sus vacunas recomendadas al día. Sin embargo, desafortunadamente esta afirmación no se cumple. Dependiendo de la edad, grupo de la comunidad a la que pertenece la persona o el niño y la vacuna de la que se esté hablando, sólo 7 u 8 de cada 10 personas o niños tienen sus vacunas al día. Aunque el número parecería ser bueno y alto, no es ideal. El ideal sería que 10 de cada 10 niños o adultos tuvieran todas sus vacunas al día.

El hecho de que esto no se cumpla afecta no solamente a la persona o niño que no tiene todas sus vacunas en orden, sino que también afecta a toda la comunidad donde este niño o adulto vive. En la medida que cada vez más personas no tengan sus vacunas al día, corremos el riesgo de pronto volver a ver enfermedades de las cuales no oíamos hace ya muchos años.

El mundo de hoy se hace más pequeño ya que la gente viaja más y con esto hay más riesgo de contraer enfermedades. Algunos ejemplos incluyen el coqueluche, tosferina o enfermedad por Bordetella pertussis, el sarampión, la varicela, el polio, la Hepatitis A y B, y la epiglotitis u obstrucción de la vía aérea por la bacteria Haemophilus influenza. Estas enfermedades crean gravísimas secuelas como la parálisis, largas y complicadas hospitalizaciones o incluso la muerte.

¿Por qué las personas no tienen sus vacunas al día?

Son muchas las razones por las cuales esto sucede. Algunas personas y padres de familia tienen temores sin fundamento respecto a los efectos secundarios de las vacunas. Otros cuestionan su eficacia. En cualquiera de estos dos casos, estudios científicos a escala mundial y años de utilización de muchas de estas vacunas (en el caso de la vacuna del polio, por ejemplo, que viene siendo administrada por más de 50 años) desvirtúan estas preocupaciones. Las vacunas que administramos en el presente son seguras y sus beneficios sobrepasan cualquier tipo de riesgo.

Otra razón se debe al desconocimiento de las vacunas que corresponden. Es importante recordar que los esquemas de vacunación son diferentes en cada país y que algunas vacunas que se recomiendan en un país no lo son en otro. Cuando las familias viajan de un país a otro es importante asegurarse que se tienen todas las vacunas recomendadas.

Finalmente, otra razón para no tener todas las vacunas al día se debe a la dificultad de mantener registros adecuados de vacunación (pasaportes, carnets, tarjetas, etc.).

¿Qué hacer para asegurarse de estar al día?

Anualmente, el Centro de Control y Prevención de Enfermedades de los Estados Unidos (CDC por sus siglas en inglés) y la Academia Americana de Pediatría, publican un calendario actualizado con todas las vacunas recomendadas para cada grupo de edad. Una forma de saber si usted y su hijo tienen todas las vacunas al día es asegurándose que tiene todas las vacunas recomendadas para su edad según el calendario. Estos calendarios pueden ser confusos, por lo que es importante que hable con su doctor. Llévele todos los registros de vacunación que tenga, tanto domésticos como internacionales.

Actualmente existen registros electrónicos médicos que facilitan documentar todas las vacunas recibidas en un mismo registro, al cual se puede tener acceso con mayor facilidad. Pregúntele a su médico si utiliza este tipo de registro electrónico. Pregúntele también si otros médicos y proveedores de salud pueden tener acceso a este registro. Pídale que se asegure que estén incluidas todas las vacunas que usted y su hijo han recibido, no sólo las que su médico les ha administrado, sino también las que han recibido en otros lugares o países.

Los hispanos y las vacunas

Desafortunadamente, la población hispana en los Estados Unidos tiende a presentar porcentajes de vacunación más bajos que la población no-hispana, y con esto el riesgo de tener enfermedades contagiosas es mayor.

Algunos de los ejemplos de las disparidades existentes respecto a enfermedades que se pueden prevenir con las vacunas son los siguientes: En el año 2000, 17 niños menores de un año murieron en Estados Unidos debido al coqueluche, tosferina o enfermedad por Bordetella pertussis. Los 17 niños nacieron en los Estados Unidos; 41 % de ellos eran hispanos. Estos desenlaces fatales, y muchas enfermedades más, hubieran podido prevenirse si hubiesen tenido al día sus vacunas de DtaP o Tdap (Difteria, Tétanos y Tosferina/pertussis). Por la misma razón, entre 1990 y 1999, un número excesivamente alto de infantes hispanos (35%) murieron a causa del coqueluche, tosferina o enfermedad por Bordetella pertussis.

Entre 1989 y 1990 hubo una epidemia de sarampión en el estado de California; 40% de todos los casos presentados de sarampión durante esta epidemia fueron de niños latinos o hispanos. Durante esta epidemia, los niños hispanos o latinos tuvieron un riesgo mayor 9.6 veces de contraer esta enfermedad más que los niños no-hispanos.

Para mayor información acerca de las vacunas y de los calendarios de vacunación, hable con su médico o visite http://www.cdc.gov/spanish/inmunizacion/index.htm, o llame al CDC al 1-(800) 232-4636.

The latest on swine flu

2009-04-24T16:42:00.004-04:00

If you've been following recent news you may have heard about something called swine flu. Swine influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs. Occasionally humans are infected with swine flu viruses and, in some instances, they can spread the virus person-to-person. Unfortunately, this is what's happening now.

Since late March, eight confirmed human cases of swine flu have occurred in California and Texas. All of the patients recovered completely, but there is concern over the fact that each of the patients was infected with a strain of swine influenza A that has never been seen before. Additionally, the CDC reports that it appears that the same new strain of swine flu is responsible for a wave of illness and a number of deaths in Mexico.

CDC is working closely with state and local officials in California and Texas and other health and animal officials on investigations into these cases. For updated information, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/.

Don't forget that there are basic precautions you can take to help protect yourself from influenza and keep from spreading it to others. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, wash your hands frequently, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.

Get Ready Mailbag: Should I stay home if I have the flu?

2009-04-24T10:57:00.003-04:00

Welcome to another installment of the Get Ready Mailbag, when we take time to answer questions sent our way by readers like you. Have a question you want answered? Send an e-mail to getready@apha.org.

Q. How long should I stay home from school or work when I have the flu? I don’t get many days off of work and I don't like my kids to miss more school than necessary, but I also don't want to get other people sick.

A. Although it may be difficult to take off time from work or school when you're sick with the flu, it is the best thing you can do to do keep others safe.

However, there's no hard and fast rule about how long you should stay home. The duration of the flu varies and so does the infectious period. But as a rule of thumb, you should probably stay home if you are exhibiting flu symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, muscle aches and pain, fatigue, cough, sore throat or runny nose. Ideally, you want to stay home until you're symptom free.

If you have no other option and must return to school or work before it is safe, take precautions to avoid making others sick. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently and avoid touching shared objects. Also avoid shaking hands and do your best to stay out the personal space of others.

Reading, writing, 'rithmetic...and disasters? Making sure your school is prepared

2009-04-17T10:27:00.003-04:00

As a parent, you do everything in your power to make sure your children are safe from disasters. You teach them not to play with matches, and how to call 9-1-1. But once they arrive at school, their safety is out of your hands. Luckily, there is a way for schools to be more prepared: The U.S. Agency for Health Research and Quality has created a new resource for schools to use when planning for the unexpected.

The new AHRQ toolkit "School-Based Emergency Preparedness: A National Analysis and Recommended Protocol" helps schools create their own detailed preparedness plans to help keep kids safe, covering everything from preparations and training to communications and building security.

One of the first steps to being more prepared is planning, which should involve teachers, public health officials and local safety workers, according to AHRQ. Parents can also play a role in helping schools prepare. When time is of the essence, swift communication can make all the difference. Parents can assist communication by alerting schools when their contact information changes. Because this step is easily forgotten, schools should periodically get in touch with parents to see if anything has changed.

Despite the need for preparedness, many schools may not be as ready as they should be, especially when in comes to issues such as sheltering in place during an emergency or lockdown situations. Yet they have good reason to be: More than 50 million children attend the nation's 115,000 schools daily, spending more than 70 percent to 80 percent of their waking hours there. And disasters can easily happen without warning during the school day.

What can you do? Find out the status of your local school's preparedness plan by contacting a school administrator or member of the PTA. If your school isn't prepared, refer administrators to the AHRQ toolkit or resources from the U.S. Department of Education. Helping your school develop a preparedness plan is an excellent way to get the community involved and help guarantee the safety of your community's children.

Photo courtesy of iStockphoto

Would you survive a disaster? Read our exclusive Q&A with Amanda Ripley

2009-04-09T16:22:00.003-04:00

If a disaster struck you right this instant — right now, right where you are — what would you do?

If you are like most people, chances are that you will freeze like a deer in headlights. The instinct to shut down when faced with a high-stress situation is common, according to Amanda Ripley, author of a recent book, "The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes — and Why." Freezing in place probably served as a form of defense for our cavemen ancestors, "but in more modern situations it is not as appropriate," said Ripley in a March Q&A interview with APHA's Get Ready campaign.

"We need to understand this better because it’s the kind of thing you can overcome, and it’s very, very dangerous in events like fires or plane crashes," Ripley told the Get Ready campaign. "We've seen this many times, we know that this is a bigger risk than almost any other behavior — certainly much more likely than panic — so we should start planning for it in advance."

So can you really do anything to prepare? Ripley says yes. Studies have shown some people react better than others in emergency situations and that training can help. To start, when faced with the worst, try controlling your fear by adjusting your breathing: "Breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, release for four counts, hold for four counts and you repeat, over and over and over again whenever you are under stress," said Ripley, who is a Time Magazine writer. Another tip? The best chances of survival in a disaster are usually to stick together and rely on those around you.

To read the full exclusive Q&A with Ripley, visit the Get Ready Web site. While you are there, check out our other helpful Q&As with health experts, including those that tell you whether your pets can give you diseases, what foods are healthy to put in your emergency supplies and how to keep your kids free of infectious diseases. Learn something new today with a Get Ready Q&A!

MRSA prevention is a good intention

2009-04-03T14:19:00.003-04:00

Here's another reason for practicing good, basic hygiene: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA (pronounced MER-sa). Ever heard of it? You may know it as a "staph infection." Either way, it's a skin infection that's often easily treatable, but can sometimes lead to more severe infections. MRSA is a type of staph infection that doesn't respond to regular antibiotics. So that means it's trickier to treat.

A staph infection (PDF) shows up as a bump on the skin such as pimples or boils. To spot one, ask yourself: Is the infected area swollen and red? Does it hurt? Is there pus? If so, then contact your health care provider immediately to get the wound examined.

Basically, you're at risk of getting infected by the bacteria if you've touched infected people, surfaces or objects. You're especially vulnerable after surgery in a hospital when you're dealing with an open wound in a crowded place. Other crowded places with frequent skin-to-skin contact and lack of cleanliness, such as schools, dormitories, day care centers and households, are also frequent sources for spread of the infection.

The good news is a few simple steps can help prevent and reduce the spread of MRSA. To protect yourself, some basic hygiene rules apply:
* Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
* Clean and bandage all open wounds — minor cuts included.
* Stay away from other people's open cuts.
* Never share toiletries such as razors, wash cloths and towels.

If you get a staph infection, your doctor may drain the infection and possibly put you on an antibiotic. Always take all prescribed antibiotic doses. If you stop taking antibiotics in the middle, the infection may come back stronger and be harder to treat the second time around. Never skip a dose, give the antibiotic to someone else or keep it for later.

Remember, most staph infections are minor and easily treated. But sometimes they can lead to much worse. Follow the basic steps we've listed to help keep you and those you love safe.

Water supplies in a disaster: Quenching your thirst when things are the worst

2009-03-27T10:45:00.004-04:00

This past weekend, countries and people around the globe celebrated World Water Day, drawing attention to this crucial, lifesaving resource. Here in America, most of us take it for granted that we'll have clean, instant access to water anytime we turn on a tap. But in the event of an emergency, water supplies can be in short supply — no matter where you live.

During a disaster, water lines can be damaged or blocked, shutting off the flow to our taps. Even if water lines keep operating, winds and floodwaters can drop chemicals and debris into water supplies and contaminate them, making them undrinkable. Think about the flooding of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, for example. The Environmental Protection Agency had to test and disinfect the water before it was declared safe, which took time. Until the water was drinkable, people had to find other sources of water, which is where planning comes in.

The best way to prepare yourself for a disaster is to include bottled water in your emergency stockpile. Experts recommend that Americans have at least a three-day supply of water stored at all times, with one gallon of water per person, per day. While relief agencies often help people following a disaster, it can be awhile until they reach your area — if at all — so it's best to have your own supplies.

If you run out of bottled water before it's safe to drink from the tap, you can use bleach as a disinfectant. When disinfecting clear water, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends mixing one-eighth of a teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water and letting it sit for 30 minutes before using. If the water is cloudy, use one-quarter of a teaspoon of bleach, says CDC. But be very careful to follow the guidelines on the types and amounts of bleach that you use. People who get their water from a well should contact their local water company before using it following a disaster.

Even minor floods and hurricanes can contaminate drinking water, as can unexpected environmental disasters such as a chemical spill. So it's best to stay prepared. Take a tip from those around the world who are working to make water accessible to all by taking some time to think about your personal water supply.

Photo by Jocelyn Augustino, courtesy FEMA. A Federal Emergency Management Agency team walks through neighborhoods in Sabine Pass, Texas, that were flooded by Hurricane Ike in September.

Don’t be afraid to offer your aid with Hands-Only CPR

2009-03-20T15:53:00.004-04:00

No one wants to be in a situation where someone's heart stops or they suddenly stop breathing. But knowing what to do if it does happen could make all the difference in the world. And luckily, you don't need a degree in medicine to help. For many situations, familiarity with CPR may be enough to get you ready to assist someone in need.

CPR, which stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, can be a lifesaving procedure when administered in time. Unfortunately, many people are worried about performing CPR in an emergency. To encourage people to help, the American Heart Association has started a campaign called Hands-Only. The campaign provides a basic CPR method for people who have not been trained.

Standard CPR consists of two parts: chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth breathing. Hands-Only teaches people to immediately call 9-1-1 and then begin hard and fast chest compressions. You can watch a quick demo of the method on the Hands-Only Web site.

While relatively easy, the Hands-Only technique should only be used for adults who suddenly collapse — not for infants, children or anyone who is discovered unconscious. Take a few minutes to check out the Hands-On demo, or better yet, visit the American Heart Association Web site to locate a CPR class near you. You'll never have to be afraid to help out again.

Photo courtesy Microsoft Clipart Gallery

Only you can prevent — and prepare for — wildfires

2009-03-13T13:49:00.003-04:00

We all remember learning about Smokey Bear and fire safety in school, but how many of us have taken that information to heart? With wildfires threatening lives both across the globe and closer to home recently, now is an excellent time to talk about preparing for a wildfire.

It is important to be prepared even if your area is not prone to wildfires, because they can occur almost anywhere during dry weather. In fact, this year's dry conditions across the United States have firefighters worried.

Fortunately, there are protective steps you can take before a wildfire occurs. Keeping dried leaves away from your home and out of your gutters will reduce the risk of your home catching fire. Create a 30-foot to 100-foot safety zone around your home that is free of flammable items, such as brush, woodpiles and propane tanks. Find out how wildfires are reported in your community and sign up for any alert systems that are available.

If a wildfire is reported in your area, the first thing you should do is find out how far it is from your home. This will help you decide whether there's time to evacuate immediately, or if you should stay at home. If told to evacuate, try to leave as soon as possible. Remember that your safety is more important than protecting your home and belongings. Always keep an evacuation "go-bag" packed and ready so you can leave quickly.

During evacuation, car trouble can leave you stranded. If this happens, don't leave your vehicle. Instead, roll up the windows, close the vents, and try to cover up with blankets or other available items. In situations where the fire is close, it is sometimes best to stay at home. Never try to outrun a wildfire.

These are just a few tips that can help prepare you for a wildfire. More information is available on the U.S. government's fire safety Web site or from Ready America.

Photo caption: Fire crews work to stop a wildfire in Southern California from advancing in October 2007. (Photo courtesy Federal Emergency Management Agency)

Remember to check your emergency supplies when you set your clocks March 8

2009-03-06T12:06:00.005-05:00

It’s time to spring forward this Sunday, March 8!

In addition to more light at the end of the day, (yea!) daylight saving time is the perfect reminder to check your preparedness kit to make sure your emergency stockpile isn’t missing any items and that the food hasn’t expired. APHA’s Get Ready: Set Your Clocks, Check Your Stocks campaign is back to remind people to refresh their emergency supplies before a disease outbreak or disaster occurs. If you haven’t created a stockpile (PDF) yet, why wait any longer?

Be sure that you have at least a three-day supply of bottled water, nonperishable foods and essential medications set aside for each member of your family. And as always, don’t forget to check the batteries in your smoke alarms. This is also a perfect time to re-familiarize yourself with your community’s emergency preparedness plan, including evacuation routes, emergency shelters and the location of food banks.

This season, APHA kicks off its Get Ready: Set Your Clocks, Check Your Stocks campaign with the release of free materials aimed at helping Americans become better prepared. Two new fact sheets provide tips on how to keep pets safe in an emergency (PDF) and how to create and maintain a stockpile on a budget (PDF). Print a copy to keep for yourself and share one with a friend or family member.

Cholera’s harsh toll in Zimbabwe serves as health reminder

2009-02-27T15:36:00.003-05:00

Thanks to public health practices like sanitation, many diseases from centuries-past are rare in the industrialized world. Take cholera, for example. The water- and food-borne intestinal disease, which has caused at least seven pandemics since the 19th century, is not a major threat in the United States.

Unfortunately, cholera still wreaks havoc in some parts of the world. Among the worst off? Zimbabwe. Thousands of Zimbabweans have died in the past year and continue to get sick and die from this horrible epidemic. Why? Poor water and sanitation, as well as a weak health care system, are to blame. Rainy season makes it worse.

Leadership has also been a problem in fighting the epidemic in Zimbabwe. The country's president, Robert Mugabe, initially denied that there was a cholera problem in the country and then declared it contained even as health experts said it was getting worse.

Cholera is easily treatable with antibiotics and rehydration, but sadly, the treatment is often out of reach in many countries. Zimbabwe, where life expectancy is about 40 years, is a country with a broken sewerage system, where soap is hard to come by and where hospitals lack medicines and staff.

While cholera's wrath is largely an ocean away, its toll is a grim reminder of the importance of preparing for and protecting our communities against disease. Even so, we're not immune. Overseas travelers can be at risk and can bring the disease back to the United States.

Want to know more or help? Visit the World Health Organization for the latest update on the cholera epidemic. Several humanitarian agencies such as Doctors Without Borders are working hard to save lives and could use your support.

Don’t let a power outage leave you powerless

2009-02-20T16:24:00.003-05:00

Take a minute to think about your everyday activities. How many of them require electricity? Now imagine your daily life without power. You probably couldn't watch TV or go online. Your fridge would shut down and your stove might not work. In certain types of emergencies, Mother Nature can leave us stranded without electricity for days or even weeks at a time. Before this happens, double-check your emergency kit to make sure you'll be prepared.

There are several ways you can plan ahead for a power outage. Make sure you have a good preparedness kit that includes a can opener and a radio, but be certain they don't require electricity. A residential generator could also prepare you for an emergency. However, if you decide to buy a generator for your home, follow the safety warnings and never, ever use it inside your home.

When the lights go out, it's tempting to start lighting every available candle, but this might lead to a whole different emergency. Candles can be a fire hazard, so it's much safer to use flashlights and battery-powered lanterns. If a power outage occurs during the winter, be smart when trying to stay warm. Put on extra clothing and never use a gas stove for heat.

Perishable food is a concern during a power outage, and could put that expensive cheese you’ve been saving at risk. To protect your food, try to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A refrigerator can keep food safely cold for about four hours if it is unopened, but never take chances with food safety. Follow the U.S. Department of Agriculture's advice: When in doubt, throw it out!

For more tips on what to do during a power outage, check out this Web page from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Then take some time to make sure you are prepared to live without power. Don't be left in the dark!