Friday, May 1, 2009

It's Friday

And I'm nosy...

So here's the question: Are you worried about the Swine Flu?

I wouldn't say that I'm worried, I'm cautious.

I work with sick people on a regular basis normally so I'm cautious to begin with. I'm just more cautious now. Many of our patients have relatives coming from and going to Mexico.

So...

As always, I'll wear a mask when dealing closely with patients, especially if they have a cough, I'll report to our doctors any patients with flu-like symptoms or respiratory issues, and most importantly, I'll stress handwashing. We've put out even more bottles of hand sanitizers than normal...and we normally have alot.

So far, it's business as usual.

27 comments:

Marjorie (Molly) Smith said...

Linda, like you I am not extremely worried, more cautious...I remember the swine flu of the 70's. I would be more worried if it was the Asian Flu, also remember that one. Lost my Dad from Complications from the Asian Flu...
You stay safe and continue to be cautious.
Molly

Nonnas News said...

Same here, just being cautious. I work at a bank and handle dirty money all day, so I wash my hands constantly and use hand sanitizer. My daughter teaches pre-k and she has a lot of kids that went to Mexico over the Easter break, and I worry more for her and my little granddaughter than for myself.

Anonymous said...

Linda, I think the media is the most responsible for causing the panic some people are feeling. I think people just need to be smart. I have never been a hand sanitizer, just a hand washer, but i think I need to rethink that and purchase some. I told my son who is in sales he should get some because of all the hand shaking he does, he said, mom, I just bought some, good boy, lol. I think you have to live your life or you may as well live in a bubble. Have a great weekend, Sue

Loretta said...

I am concerned because the only confirmed case in the county I live in is in the nursing home my mother-in-law is in. One of the staff came down with it after returning from a trip to Mexico on the 21st. He went home ill on Saturday and then my husband and father-in-law went to visit my mother-in-law on Sunday before anyone knew he was infected! UGH! Our doctor gave us antiviral meds just in case we need them. Hugs, Loretta

Unknown said...

I know I blogged about the media pushing this pandemic,but honestly I'm cautious, but not really doing much differently. I don't know anyone personally that has been in Mexico, I don't work with the public. I talk to my kids about hand washing and staying clear of anyone with a cough........the normal stuff.

Cynthia said...

I'm not really worried about it at all. However, I don't routinely work with sick people or I would be more concerned and cautious as you are.

I do have a friend in Arizona that lives in an area where there are a lot of cases right now and her kids (and everyone elses) have been quarentined and the school is shut down for a week.

I wonder if much of the hype is to draw our attention away from politics and cause people to see government as the solution to problems.

Leigh of Tales from Bloggeritaville said...

I am a HUGE germaphob, but for whatever reason, I am not that worried right now. I think the cases are isolated and the syptoms seem to be minor in comparison to Mexico (which could also be attributed to lack of health care). I guess I am cautious. But I am that every day, being the person I am.
I always say, play it safe!

Lynda said...

Well, I am in Houston.. so yes, we're worried.

stalkermom said...

I'm not normally a worrier about these things! My family has been lucky in that we hardly get sick. Funny though, I was in Cancun only 2 weeks ago, so some co-workers who freak about these things were concerned. I was going to come in with a mask on, but they saw me before I could do it!

michelle said...

I have been a little worried about it. I did go more hand sanitizer for the kids to have with them at all times. I will be so glad when this flu passes.

Mari said...

I'm with you - not worried but cautious. I feel that the media blows so much out of proportion, so I take it with a grain of salt. Still - taking normal precautions, especially hand washing is always important.

Michele said...

Hi Linda ~ I'm not really worried either...but I am really sick of all the media just going crazy with this. That's all you hear on the radio and TV. I work for a healthcare company and we've bumped up production of our gloves and masks. Other than that, I'm not doing anything differently...just being cautious!

Have a wonderful weekend!
Hugz,
Michele

STILLMAGNOLIA said...

nervious....cautious....not worried...I too remember the swine flu of the 70's. I am taking precautions.

nanny said...

Worried about my pregnant daughter in Dallas, not worried about me, (yet) none reported that I know of in Arkansas. If there is I will probably get kinda worried. Take care, Wash, Wash, Wash those hands!

Lene said...

I guess living in AZ I am just a little overwhelmed by all the stories. I was amazed at all the extra paperwork and reports the pediatrican had to do when I took Roo in.

Reva said...

I'm not stressed out about it for sure, although I am immuno suppressed due to my kidney transplant. Clean hands and staying out of crowds of people are my best defense so I'm mostly following my regular routine.

Sweet Tea said...

As I've confessed on my Blog, I'm a Germaphoeb so I get a little nuts during times like this. Sure be glad when all and everyone is well again.

Darlene said...

I am not too worried. We live in a small area without so much traveling as in the big cities. We are cautious and just using our normal hand washing precautions. I don't think there is much else we could do anyway.

Hope you have a great weekend Linda!

Bren's Life said...

Honestly I think the media is making a huge deal out of this.. Every Dr that I have heard talk on the news says it's nothing more then the flu.. Nothing to be having a pandemic over or going to the ER for..
I am cautious though & wash my kids hands & haven't been anywhere in the last few days. But then again I don't want to walk around with this stupid boot on too!
I am very germ conscious. But not obsessive over it..

Christine said...

I want to jump in here and say, I've turned off my T.V. This doesn't mean I'm ignoring the situation, but I'm so tired of hearing bad news. Yes, I'm concerned but it is not going to control my life.

Janiece said...

I am no more worried about this flu than any other one.

After looksing my spleen, I have learned to be very careful.

Belle (from Life of a...) said...

I agree with you. I'm not fretting over it but I am being cautious.

Natasha said...

I'm with you Linda. More cautious, but not freaking out. Good thinking!!

valerie said...

I don't think we've had any cases in OK, but there have been in several surrounding states.
I'm not afraid or worried, but do think we all should be more cautious.
A friend owns a restaurant in town. She went to Sam's on Thursday and they were completely out of hand sanitizer.
Take care, Linda!

wendy said...

I'm trying NOT to think about it. The media doesn't help. I just decided to walk around in a haz mat outfit and that should solve the likelyhood of my catching it. (maybe)

dani said...

i, too, am cautious. that being said, i am a bit of a germaphobe anyway. i keep hand sanitizer on me at all times and enjoy keeping my personal space personal!!!
i have thought about you several times knowing that you are a nurse in ca, linda; do be careful!!!
much love,
dani xxx

Kim Sue said...

maybe it will make us all more cautious now and after the is hype is over. What I am concerned about it is my trip at the end of the month where I need to get on an airplane.