Another wave still is possible

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July 21, 2010

Anonymous CNHI The Kokomo Tribune Wed Jul 21, 2010, 12:27 AM EDT

THE ISSUE:H1N1 flu.

OUR VIEW:Health officials expect an increase in the flu in August and September. Don’t abandon good hygiene and common sense.

State health officials said in May flu season was over – for now. Since a worldwide outbreak of H1N1 flu last fall, 39 Hoosiers have died, and a fifth of state residents has been vaccinated against the strain of “swine flu,” officials said.

Howard County health officials hosted several vaccination clinics over the last year. They inoculated 10,457 county residents. Doctors and pharmacies offered flu shots at little cost, particularly for pregnant women, pre-schoolers and people with chronic illnesses.

State Health Commissioner Dr. Gregory Larkin in May urged those Hoosiers who haven’t received the H1N1 vaccine to get one. Howard County H1N1 preparedness coordinator Karen Lopke said last week health departments across the nation have been warned to expect an increase of H1N1 in August and September.

“If history is a teacher, there will be another outbreak,” Larkin said in May. “What we don’t know is whether it will be in a milder form or not.”

Hoosiers should continue to take the same precautions to keep the virus from getting another foothold here – particularly when school starts again.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the issue away.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.

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

• And if you are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

As we mentioned back when the outbreak began last fall, experts suggest having a two-week supply of water and food. If a third-wave materializes, you might need such a supply if you cannot get to a store.

It’s summer, but that doesn’t mean we can abandon good hygiene and common sense.

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