Swine flu: protecting yourself and your family

H1N1 virus tracker - reported cases by country

According the World Health Organization (WHO) we are not out of the water yet with the H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu. Although reports of cases have died down in the United States, it has spread across the ocean to Great Britain, Australia and Japan. Experts report that it will make its way back to the U.S. by September, and is even now approaching epidemic proportions. Current figures show the U.S. has over 18,000 reported cases of H1N1 which were either suspected, confirmed or fatal. Dr. Henry Niman, a biomedical researcher in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has an online flu tracker which is updated regularly. (see website here)

What does that mean for us? Even though tourism is down in Orlando and Central Florida this season due to the economy, we will still welcome a number of visitors from around the world in the next few months. We must be prepared. Here are a few tips to protect yourself and your family:

1. Stay informed. Although the WHO does not want to cause widespread panic and alarm, the H1N1 virus is still cause for concern. It is important to get current information. While regular reports may have died down in the mainstream media, US citizens and travelers can keep up to date by getting updates from the WHO and checking Dr. Niman's website. Be aware how the virus is affecting your area. If you are planning on traveling, find out statistics for the region you will be visiting.

2. Strengthen your immune system. This is important not only for outbreaks such as swine flu, but to protect yourself from the wide variety of bacteria and viruses that come and go each season. Practicing the healthy habits listed below will not guarantee protection against the H1N1 or any other virus, but are an important added measure. These good habits include:

• Washing your hands and keeping a clean environment in your home and/or office;
• Eating plenty of nutrient-rich fresh fruits and vegetables, (organic if possible to avoid consuming additional chemicals and toxins which stress the immune system);
• Getting plenty of rest and managing stress with relaxation and meditation - this should include maintaining a positive attitude;
• Staying home if you are sick, and keeping family members home, away from others if they become infected;
• If comfortable, you can wear a face mask rated N-95 or higher (the FDA standard) when traveling to areas where an outbreak has been reported.

Additionally, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine lists a few nutritional supplements which reportedly have immune boosting properties: astragalus, probiotics and of course, vitamin C. Astragalus is a Chinese herb that can be purchased over the counter. It has been used for centuries to strengthen the body's immune system and fight disease. Probiotics are friendly, naturally occurring bacteria that can be found in yogurt or purchased in the form of a supplement. Eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C should be a regular part of our diet. However, when supplementing, experts recommend natural vitamin C such as Ester-C, as opposed to the common form, ascorbic acid, which can be harsh on the digestive system.

If you do suspect you or a family member may be infected, see your healthcare professional.