What can you do to protect yourself and your family from the spread of the flu? To reinforce the safeguards you have probably heard before, the Department of Public Health has recommended the following guidelines for the prevention of the spread of Novel H1N1 Influenza:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer for at least 30 seconds.

• Frequently wash your hands, especially after coughing and/or sneezing.

• Alcohol-rub or wash before and after EVERY contact.

• Avoid sharing personal items.

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

In compliance with recommendations from the Alabama Department of Public Health, Bevill State Community College wants to equip students and employees with information concerning the prevention of seasonal and H1N1 flu.   According to the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the symptoms for H1N1 flu are similar to the seasonal flu: illness with fever, respiratory symptoms, body aches, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.  The infectious period is 1 day prior through 7 days after onset of symptoms.

More information can be found on the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Web sites.  Valuable information concerning the flu is also available at www.flu.gov.