Magazine Feature

HomeKeepers International was featured in the September 2008 issue of Black Enterprise.

Click here to see the article.
We are on Page 2.

We are very excited and honnored to be featured in such a prestigious magazine!
Thank you to everyone at Black Enterprise!

Fast Facts on H1N1 Virus (aka: Swine Flu)

Though we haven't heard much about it in the news recently, the H1N1 virus is still present in the US and shouldn't be discarded just yet.  According to The World Health Organization, the virus is still at a pandemic level 6.  This means that human to human transmission is present, the virus has been reported in multiple places over the world, and there has been report of at least one community with sustained infection.  

Here, we have compiled 10 fast facts on H1N1 and some links for further information:

1. Hand washing is the number one defense against this and any virus or bacteria.  See this link from the CDC for proper hand washing technique.
2. Hospitalization occurs most in young adults (20-40 years of age).  Some have been previously healthy, though most have some sort of risk (obesity, asthma, suppressed immune system, lung disease, cancer, etc..). 
3. Children have been less likely to catch the virus so far. However, if your child exhibits any flu symptoms, he/she should stay home from school until the symptoms clear up.  See this link from the CDC about taking care of someone with the flu.
4. If your child exhibits prolonged symptoms, he/she should be taken to see a medical professional.  See this link from Georgetown Hospital for information about when to take your child into the ER with the flu.
5. Antibiotics DO NOT work on the flu.  There are some anti-viral medications available for severe cases.  Let your medical professional decide if antibiotics or anti-virals will benefit you or your children.  
6. H1N1 flu has more GI complaints.  See this link from the Mayo Clinic for treatment of diarrhea.
7. Pregnancy increases risk of infection.  If you develop flu like symptoms, be sure to mention them to your doctor.  
8. There is a vaccine being developed for H1N1 flu.  In the meantime, keep getting a yearly flu shot if you are at risk for getting the other flu strains.  See this link from the CDC to see who should get vaccinated.  
9. CDC states that the best way to avoid the flu is to stay healthy in general.  Make sure you are getting enough rest, fluids, and proper nutrition.
10. If you are doing research on the H1N1 flu on the internet, use reputable sources.  Hospitals, the Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization are great places with accurate information. 

All information from the World Health Organization (www.who.int) unless otherwise noted.

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Thank you for visiting the HomeKeepersInternational Blog. Here we will keep you updated on important information related to homecare, health, and anything we think you might find useful. If you have any suggestions please email us at info@homekeepersinternational.com or use the "contact us" page on the HomeKeepers International website.