H1N1 discussion Board

>> Namaste is better than a handshake for some time. :) >> Push the doors open using your elbow wherever possible. >> Instead of handkerchiefs use disposable paper tissues.

Due to the hype it has obtained everyone would have read about the instructions for prevention of the flu,but here is a set of instructions that i found very credible and the most convincing. *the surgical masks DO NOT provide protection against the H1N1 virus.Cotton handkerchieves folded into 2 layers with 2-3 drops of nilgiri oil can do a much better job(please do not put on surgical masks anywhere you go around ,it will only create panic...instead cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief in a crowded or disease prevalent place)and remember that dependence on surgical mask against H1N1 is like using an umbrella made up of mosquito net * tamiflu does not kill but prevents H1N1 from further proliferation till the virus limits itself.H1N1, like anyother influenza A virus ,only infects the upper respiratory tract and proliferates only there.The only portals of entry are nostrils and mouth/throat. *some very simple steps that can be followed are: 1)frequent hand washing 2)"Hands of face" approach.resists all temptations to touch your face (unless you want to eat) 3)Gargle twice a day with warm salt water.In a way , gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy person that tamiflu has on an infected one. 4)blowing the nose atleast once a day is very effective in bringing down the viral population 5)boost your immunity with foods that are rich in vitamin C(amla and other citrus fruits) 6)drink as muchas warm liquids as you can.Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling ,but in the reverse direction .They wash off proliferating viruses from throat into the stomach where they cannot survive,proliferate or do any arm. All these are simple ways to prevent , within household means of most househalds,and certainly much less painful than to wait in long queues outside public hospitals. Happy breathing!!!