H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Virus
Stay Prepared and Informed

With the cold and flu season upon us, it is important to understand the new H1N1 flu strain and how to help stay healthy. Understanding how the flu virus spreads and tips on how to help prevent getting the flu are very important to know. Columbus Regional Hospital along with our network of primary care physicians and urgent care centers are here to help and inform.

NOTICE: If you're planning to visit a patient at Columbus Regional Hospital:

Effective October 19, visitation at Columbus Regional Hospital is limited to two adult visitors per patient at a time. No children under the age of 18 should visit patients in the hospital. The limits on hospital visitation are for the influenza season this fall and winter, and is a similar direction that many other hospitals across the country are taking for H1N1 influenza preparedness for patient safety. These safety measures are to help prevent transmission of illness to other patients, visitors, and staff.

The H1N1 flu has been found to occur in higher numbers in children and young adults. Children may be contagious before they begin showing signs of illness. Allowing this age group to visit could potentially put patients at risk.

Do not visit a patient if you have a fever, symptoms of respiratory illness such as cough or sore throat, been in contact with individuals who have influenza-like symptoms, or are feeling ill.

Columbus Regional Hospital thanks the community for their cooperation to create the safest patient environment possible during this influenza season.

H1N1 Flu
Flu-like Symptoms May Include the Following

• fever (usually high)
• headache
• dry cough
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle aches
• sore throat
• vomiting

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

• 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 hands cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

•Download the CDC's "Take 3" Steps to Fight the Flu Brochure

* Video and audio casts are courtsey of the CDC (www.cdc.gov)
Updated: 10/15/09