The Swine Flu, or novel H1N1, or pandemic H1N1 is beginning to be seen in increasing numbers of patients as the new school year begins in the United States. While about a dozen states have schools open at this time, states such as New York have time to prepare. People in Rochester and Monroe County, N.Y., should take the opportunity in order to be ready for September and October.

The Swine Flu is a virus. It is spread from person to person due to poor hygiene practices by infected patients and by inadequate cleaning.

Stay away from people who are coughing, sneezing or have a runny nose.If co-workers are sick, suggest they stay home.

Hand washing is very important. The Swine Flu virus enters a patients body through their touching of their eyes, nose or mouth. Proper washing techniques, as shown in the video, can prevent the transmission of the virus in this manner.

Old fashioned soap is just fine to use. The idea is to wash the germs from the skin. Using good technique, that is exactly what will happen.

Alcohol based sanitizers can also be used when soap and water are not available.

People should avoid touching their mouths, noses or eyes as much as possible. Those are the routes that the virus can enter the body. Natural mannerisms and nervous habits can make prevention difficult so heightened awareness is important.

Cleaning, whether in public areas, businesses, schools or at home can also prevent the spread of the Swine Flu. Simple washing of surfaces with a household disinfectant, according to the product's directions, will do the trick.

People with flu symptoms should take precautions against spreading the illness. Coughing or sneezing into the crook of the arm is recommended. The use of paper tissues that are disposed of after use is also suggested. People who do not have the illness should handle clothing, bed linens and trash with care so as not to be exposed. The use of latex or nitrile gloves to handle potentially infectious household items is always a good idea.