How Does Swine Flu Spread and Can It Be Prevented? Is There a Vaccine?
People can spread swine flu when they have symptoms and possibly as long as seven days after they first become ill, even if symptoms have subsided. It is also thought that children can remain contagious for an even longer period of time. There is currently no vaccine for prevention of swine flu, and vaccines used for seasonal flu provide no protective effect for the current H1N1 strain of swine flu. As a result, people should follow sensible preventive measures, like these recommended by the CDC: • 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 hand cleaners are also effective. • Try to avoid close contact with sick people. • If you get sick with influenza, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Viruses spread this way. At this time, t
