With the current reports of Swine flu in various locations in the United States and in large numbers in Mexico, it is important to review the actions that each of us should take to reduce our risks of catching this new virus. The vaccination that was developed and given for the seasonal flu this past fall does not provide protection against the new Swine flu. However, if individuals become ill with Swine flu, the usual anti-viral drugs Tamiflu(r) and Relenza(r) for treating seasonal flu are effective against Swine flu.

There are a number of ways you and your family can reduce the risk of catching swine flu:

* Avoid people with the flu.

* Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

* Wash your hands before eating or touching your face, after touching surfaces that someone might have coughed or sneezed on, after going out into the community, and after caring for someone who has the flu or touching something that someone who is sick may have touched.

* If someone in your household is sick stay home until that person no longer feels ill.

For more information check your local installation hotline or go to
www.dod.mil/pandemicflu or www.cdc.gov/swineflu