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Previous Issue's Dilemma:

The swine flu's made me a "fraidy cat"

I'll admit it. The swine flu scares me. I've been inoculated, but I'm still worried that I might get the flu. I'm also scared that I could take germs home with me or to a client's home and infect those around me. What can I do to get over my fears -- and keep from spreading the flu?

-- Bianca, RN

The swine flu isn't as beastly as you think

Bianca, with the number of news reports on outbreaks of the H1N1 virus, your concern about contracting the illness or passing it on to others is understandable. However, the first wave of the flu has now slowed to a ripple, and for most people, this strain has proven to be no worse than any other. So, if another round of the flu does hit within the next few months, these facts should help put your worries to rest.

Your peers also suggest you:

• Learn more about H1N1.
• Wash your hands often.
• Keep a positive attitude.

Learn more about H1N1

The unknown can be scary. And the media do tend to overhype possible epidemics. But if you educate yourself about the flu, it may allay some of your fears.

Deborah Arkley, RN and clinical supervisor, believes a little learning can be a good thing.

"For information about H1N1, check out one of the many sites on the Internet. Also, recommend the H1N1 flu injection to others."

Wash your hands often

Whether it's a cold, the flu or another of the many contagious diseases that go around each year, the most effective way to protect yourself and others is simple: Wash your hands.

Ken Elwood, RN/BSN, reiterates this point.

"Direct contact with an infected person or object is required for you to contract the flu. The only way to prevent contracting or passing on the infection is to wash your hands frequently -- and use hand sanitizer."

An anonymous reader also reminds you the importance of good hygiene.

"As a nurse, Bianca, you know we can all be paranoid of germs. The best defense is washing your hands as often as possible. Plus, if you've had the shot, you'll build up an immunity to the virus."

Keep a positive attitude

Since you've been vaccinated against H1N1 and you know frequent hand washing is essential, should you be so worried about the flu? One reader doesn't think so.

A technician-nurse encourages you to draw on your own inner strength.

"It's not just a cliché; I believe it works: the power of positive thinking. Take good care of yourself. And instead of thinking ‘piggy flu,' think healthy, healthy, healthy and healthy. Attract the positive."

Bianca, although H1N1 has gotten more press than most strains of the flu, don't let this illness send you into a tizzy. Find out more about it, wash your hands often and think positively. The flu season will be over soon!