Simple Advice on Some Preventive Aspects of H1N1

If you don’t have symptoms, it is important to remember that daily activities should continue as normal. It is safe to go to school, work and socialize.

Prevention continues to be the best approach to avoid illness. Malaysians are advised to wash their hands thoroughly and often, cough into their sleeves and stay away from the public if they are sick.

The use of surgical masks by the general population in public places in general is not recommended, as they have not been proven effective in reducing the risk of infection.

The use of anti-virals such as Tamiflu for treating mild illness or for prevention is not recommended unless advise by the physician.

If you have influenza-like symptoms, and have recently traveled to an area affected by HINI (human swine influenza), like Mexico, Australia, USA or have been in contact with someone who has HINI (human swine influenza), it is important to avoid close contact with others for seven days after your symptoms start as this is the time when the illness can be spread to others. Stay home from work, school, public places and avoid social settings. Minimize contact with family members as much as possible. Like any illness, should your symptoms worsen, visit your doctor or a walk-in clinic and be sure to mention your travel history.

If you have traveled to Mexico, Australia, USA or other affected areas more than seven days ago and are not feeling sick, go about your daily routine as usual. Any symptoms would have been apparent by now.

If your travel partner was sick and you are now experiencing symptoms, stay at home, rest and drink plenty of fluids. Should your symptoms worsen, visit your doctor or a walk-in clinic.

If someone you have come in contact with has traveled to Mexico, Australia, USA or other affected areas and is sick, go about your daily routine as usual. If you begin to experience symptoms, follow the advice above.

If your staff, students or a co-worker has traveled to Mexico, Australia, USA or other affected areas and are not experiencing any symptoms, they should continue to work, go to school and go about their daily routine as usual. If they begin to experience symptoms, they should follow the advice above.