Although the flu season is winding down, the H1N1 influenza virus continues to be active in several areas. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently updated its website to include new information for people with disabilities regarding the H1N1 influenza. The new pages contain advice and information directed at both consumers and supporters. Check out the new resources here:

• Five Things People with Disabilities Need To Know About the Flu
• Five Things Caregivers of People with Disabilities Need To Know About the Flu

The H1N1 flu (also known as the swine flu) is a respiratory disease with symptoms similar to the regular flu. You can protect yourself from the flu! Take these everyday steps:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Count to 20 or recite the alphabet, and you're done!
• If you are in a place where you cannot use soap and water, use hand sanitizer.
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, or cough or sneeze into your elbow area.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you have flu symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, muscle aches, and extreme tiredness, see a doctor within 48 hours.

You can also learn more about the H1N1 virus through the following links:

• Consumer Advisory Committee: H1N1 (Swine) Flu (pdf file)
• California Department of Public Health H1N1 Info
• Flu.gov: Know what to do about the flu