Red Cross Urges Families and Communities to Prepare During Swine Fl...( Washing Hands Recognizing Symptoms Ke...),Health

Washing Hands, Recognizing Symptoms Key to Prevent Spread

WASHINGTON, April 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Washing hands and paying close attention to symptoms of illness are just some of the things the public can to do help reduce the risk from the swine flu (H1N1) outbreak, the American Red Cross said today.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090108/RedCrossLOGO)

"This is a serious situation that has the potential to spread, and it is a good time for families, businesses and organizations to follow good public health practices and to review and update their preparedness plans," said Scott Conner, Senior Vice President of Preparedness and Health & Safety Services at the American Red Cross. "Taking steps to prepare for potential emergencies in advance can go a long way in making families feel safer."

The American Red Cross urges the public to remember these simple actions:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective when soap and water aren't available.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are feeling sick.

Children have been greatly impacted by this outbreak, and need to know how to properly wash their hands to prevent the spread of germs. The Red Cross has partnered with NSF International's (NSF) Scrub Club(R) to educate children about the importance of hand washing to protect them against influenza. The Scrub Club Web site (scrubclub.org) i
'/>"/>