How to Prevent the Cycle of Swine Flu

First detected in 2009 within the U.S., swine flu is a recombination of existing flu genes. The swine flu contains genes from pigs, birds and humans, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Swine flu is still in circulation due to mutations of the flu's genes. Not being vaccinated or having an immunodeficiency, can make you susceptible to developing swine flu. Preventative measures can keep your protected.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Soap
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Wipes containing bleach
• Flu vaccination

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Instructions

• 1

  Keep hands clean.

  Wash your hands. Soap and water can remove germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer comes in handy when you can't wash your hands.

• 2

  Refrain from touching your eyes, mouth or nose until you have cleaned your hands. Germs enter your mucous membranes from your fingers.

• 3

  Sanitize your home with wipes containing bleach. Bleach kills a variety of germs, including flu viruses. Use the wipes often, especially if you have a sick person in your home.

• 4

  Don't skip vaccination.

  Get vaccinated yearly to prevent swine flu cycles. Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated, suggests the CDC. Alternatively, the nasal flu spray is available to children 2 and older. The 2011 vaccine protects against seasonal flu, as well as swine flu.

• 5

  Quarantine sick people to one room of your home. Choose one family member to care for your loved ones to reduce transmission of the swine flu.

• 6

  Stay home from work if you get sick. Plan to stay home for up to one week.