Stay Safe During a Pandemic

• Obtain updates from the internet, radio, newspapers, and television.
• Follow directions given by Saskatchewan Health and/or Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region. Directions may change as more information becomes available about the characteristics of the particular virus causing the outbreak.
• Recognize influenza symptoms By knowing the what symptoms are, you can recognize if you or a loved one has caught the flu and should stay home to recover.
• Wash your hands often Frequently wash your hands to prevent the spread of disease.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth Most germs enter your body through these areas.
• Stand away from other people Most influenza germs are transmitted within a 1 metre radius; therefore, establish a 1 metre buffer zone around yourself when you are with other people.
• Avoid large crowds and restrict your travel Large crowds and crowded planes or buses are ideal for the spread of influenza, so consider staying at home.
• Don’t visit people who have the flu A visit to a sick friend may cause you to be infected.

When caring for those with the flu

• Keep loved ones at home to recover This will help prevent the flu from spreading.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after caring for someone Most germs enter your body through these areas.
• Take loved ones to a health care provider as needed Infected individuals should wear a mask when visiting the doctor to prevent the spread of germs.
• Follow any instructions given by medical personnel Implementing infection control procedures can prevent the flu from spreading through your household if you are caring for someone infected.
• Wear mask and gloves You should wear a surgical mask and gloves when in direct contact with a coughing individual.
• Don’t share eating utensils or drinks If a family member is sick, keep their personal items (e.g. towels and toothbrushes) separate from those of the rest of the family.

When you’re sick with the flu

• Stay at home! If you go out when you’re sick, you may spread your illness to your co-workers, classmates, and neighbours.
• Get plenty of rest It may take you longer to get better if you are not well rested. The disease can last four to seven days and leave you with a cough and fatigue for several weeks.
• Cover when you cough or sneeze Sneeze or cough into your elbow, shoulder or tissue. If you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands immediately.
• Follow any advice given by your doctor or medical personnel Wear a mask if you need to visit your doctor to prevent spreading germs through sneezing or coughing.
• Don’t share eating utensils or drinks Keep your personal items (example: towels and toothbrushes) separate from those of the rest of the family.