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Nov 14, 2009 7:21 pm US/Central
Bioethics Expert Has Advice For Handling The Flu
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) ―
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"If you feel really ill, you should not be running around," said Dr. Jeffery Kahn, Director of the Center for Bioethics at the University of Minnesota.
CBS
Health experts say most people who've had the flu this year have had H1N1 and not the seasonal flu. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control said at this point of the season, we've already surpassed the peak number of flu cases for an average year.
With so many people sick, some are deciding not to stay home. But there is a code of conduct that could keep others safe from getting sick.
"If you feel really ill, you should not be running around," said Dr. Jeffery Kahn, Director of the Center for Bioethics at the University of Minnesota.
Believe it or not, there is an ethical way of handling yourself when dealing with the flu.
"There are ways to be individually responsible," said Kahn.
He says everyone plays a role in making sure the flu virus does not spread so quickly to others. That means running errands, going to the mall, church, school or even the grocery store are out of the question if you're sick.
The rule of thumb is that after 24 hours without a fever, it's OK to be around others.
Kahn says during the flu season people should make sure their sick neighbors get the help they need so they can stay inside and get well.
"Say, 'I'm running out to the store, can I pick you up some groceries and I'll leave them on your front step?' That way they get taken care of, they're not infecting other people, you've done a good deed, you've been a good citizen," said Kahn.
Being a good neighbor at work could be as simple as keeping hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes at your desk.
At the 311 center in Minneapolis space is limited, so covering your cough and sneeze is essential. Some say it's not rude to ask a co-worker who is sick if home is a better place for them to be.
"You don't seem like you're feeling good, what do you think? Do you want to go home? Do you feel like you should go home?" suggested PJ Hillesheim.
The experts also say stockpiling water, food or antiviral drugs is not being socially responsible.
The
University of Minnesota has a Web site with tips for being a good neighbor when dealing with a pandemic.
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