Swine Flu Precautions: Your Physical and Mental Wellbeing

With all the attention focused on Mexico due to the recent Swine Flu outbreak, I thought I'd update you with what's really going on and add some very common sense recommendations to follow if you live anywhere near or have loved ones close to any influenza or swine flu outbreak centers.

As some of you may know, I live in Mexico, central Mexico to be precise. I'm 2 hours north of Mexico City where the swine flu epidemic apparently began - influenza - as it is being called here. Because of my proximity, I've kept alert to all the update concerning the H1N1 strain of flu.

First of all, I want to take this opportunity and space to thank all of my friends whom have emailed me with well wishes and to let you know that I am well.

One of the most important actions the Mexican authorities have taken is to close all schools nationwide to avoid the possible spreading of the virus. As of today, restaurants have also officially been closed and are only allowed home-delivery. This of course to avoid people congregating in large groups publicly.

Because the government has maintained us as well-informed as possible, contrary to what I've heard on a few international news casts, I feel safe in taking the necessary precautions that we have been advised to follow. And now, I share them here with you.

Recommendations to follow for staying healthy and safe.

First and foremost: There is no need to panic. As the title of the article reads: "Your physical AND mental wellbeing," part of your mental or emotional health is to stay in control and go on with your life using these recommendations for your safety and wellbeing.

These are preventive actions to ensure that the virus stays under control. Getting upset and panicky does not help and may worsen the situation. So please stay calm and simply follow the advice that follows.

What you need to do if you live in Mexico or close to a known outbreak of the influenza virus.

1. Avoid visiting crowded places unless strictly necessary.

Schools have been closed, afternoon extra-curricular classes as well, even churches cancelled their services in Mexico City.

If you MUST go out to public places (bank, doctor's office, etc.) make sure to wear a surgical mask at all times.

Most surgical masks have a life of up to 4 hours. Change them when the 4 hours of use are up. If you can't find one (they are sold-out here in Querétaro, Mexico) cover your mouth with a light weight scarf or bandana. Change it often.

3. Avoid shaking hands or kissing hello or goodbye, as is customary in Mexico and many latin-american cultures.

4. If you must open doors or press elevator buttons use your elbows or knuckles instead of your hands. I know this may sound extreme but it can be done. Today I rode the elevator and I used my index finger's knuckle to press the floor number and then followed the next recommendation.

5. Carry an anti-bacterial gel and use it often. You can clean your knuckles or elbows when you get back to your car to clean your hands before touching the steering wheel.

6. Wash your hands as often as possible.

7. Stock up on water and enough food so you don't have to make repeated trips to the grocery store or market.

8. If you happen to feel ill with flu-like symptoms - DO NOT waste time by self-medicating or going to the doctor. Best course of action is to go to a hospital and get examined. Better sooner than later. I've read in some cases it only took 2 days for the symptoms to turn deadly.

9. If you planned to travel to Mexico City or any other major city or country with influenza outbreaks and can postpone your trip, DO.

10. And last, but not least - stay calm. If you calmly follow the recommendations above, there is no need to be fearful.

I hope this helps to keep you informed and safe. After that, go on with your life and enjoy it! Take this opportunity to appreciate this change of pace and try to relax, maybe get some chores done around your home that you might have been unable to get to before. And know that now, more than ever before, we are connected through this amazing medium - the internet and we can help each other by passing along sound advice and staying connected.

Be grateful for what you have. And thanks again for your concern and love.

Gratefully,

Romy