Swine Flu: How to Care For Someone Sick With Swine Flu In Your Home

Check with the swine flu patient's doctor by telephone to see if there are any special treatment or medication recommendations based upon the individuals past medical history. Confirm that home treatment is appropriate for the sick person rather than hospitalization.

Make sure the swine flu patient is taking either Tamiflu or Relenza to help treat the infection. If you or your family will be caring for a swine flu patient then each of you also need to take these anti-viral medications to avoid contracting the disease.

Keep the swine flu patient isolated from other family members. Ideally they should have their own well ventilated room and bathroom. Keep the door closed. Try to disinfect the bathroom regularly with either 70% ethanol, 5% Lysol, or 10% bleach. If they need access to other areas of the house they should wear a mask.

In order to successfully prevent a swine flu pandemic in the U.S. infected individuals need to stay home for a full 7 days from the time they began manifesting symptoms. The CDC estimates adults remain contagious for a full week; children even longer.

Practice common sense universal precautions. Everyone in the house should meticulously wash their hands with soap and water for at least 15 to 30 seconds. An alcohol disinfecting gel will suffice in between washings with soap and water. Dry your hands with paper towels and dispose of them immediately. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Avoid catching swine flu by minimizing close contact with sick patients. If that's impractical then invest in some good disposable N95 (or better) respirators. These respirators fit more snugly over the mouth and nose and are more efficient at preventing transmission of the swine flu virus. Avoid reusing if possible.

Caring For Someone Sick With Swine Flu In Your Home
Do not use plates, utensils, towels, or any household items used by a swine flu patient until the items have been thoroughly disinfected. These items are contaminated by the swine flu virus which can still be transmitted to you inadvertently.