Monday, September 21, 2009

It Got Me!

Just a heads up that even the most well-informed and prepared people succumb to illness, and I am one of them.
After months of touting how easy it is to prevent yourself from the flu (basic hand-washing and sanitary precautions, people!), I unfortunately found out that it is much easier to catch the flu.
I don't know how or when or where, but all I know is that it got me! And it got me good!
So be warned, but don't panic. You will not die from the "swine flu."
I called my primary care doctor to ask whether or not I ought to come in and they told me it's really up to the person. If you think you WILL die from the flu, please go see your doctor. If you're confident in your abilities to care for it on your own (i.e. drinking fluids, getting rest, taking Tylenol to control fever), then you're probably A-okay.
One tip my doctor's office gave me I found to be particularly helpful is keep track of your daily/hourly body temperature fluctuations with a thermometer. If you don't have a thermometer, go buy one from your local pharmacist. Persistent fever is a key indicator of whether or not you need to see a doctor.

More to come as I'm "on the mend"...

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Sun Protection Satire

I just posted an article from the New Yorker, which is a hilarious must-read!

Sometimes as a public health professional, you have to take a step back and laugh at yourself. One characteristic that makes a good health educator: a good sense of humor. No amount of schooling will teach you that, people!

I invite you to refer to my "serious" post about sun protection from September 2nd.

Shouts & Murmurs: A Guide To Summer Sun Protection: newyorker.com

Shouts & Murmurs: A Guide To Summer Sun Protection: newyorker.com

Shared via AddThis

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Elmo Says, "Swine Flu is BAD!"

I've been a fan of Sesame Street since the beginning. And by "the beginning," I mean my beginning, not Sesame Street's.

Thousands of children have learned the alphabet, counting, lessons on sharing, friendship, and diversity from colorful puppets. And now, Sesame Street characters are getting in on the Public Health action by helping the Department of Health and Human Services with a flu prevention and hygiene campaign directed at small children. And I must say, I am a fan.

Check out the CNN article!

Watch the new Elmo (and Gordon) flu videos! (I'm a sucker for Elmo's cuteness)