Swine Flu

Please realize that this is not official advice!
>
> Tamiflu does not kill but prevents H1N1 from further
> proliferation till the virus limits itself in about 1-2 weeks
> (its natural cycle). H1N1, like other Influenza A viruses, only
> infects the upper respiratory tract and proliferates (only)
> there. The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/
> throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost
> impossible not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all
> precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as
> proliferation is.
>
> While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1
> infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of
> symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very
> simple steps - not fully highlighted in most official
> communications - can be practiced:
>
> 1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official
> communications).
>
> 2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to
> touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap).
>
> 3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you
> don't trust salt).. H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection
> in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate and show
> characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation.
> In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a
> healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't
> underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative
> method.
>
> 4. Similar to #3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every
> day with warm salt water.
> Blowing the nose hard once a day, and swabbing both nostrils
> with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in
> bringing down viral population.
>
> 5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in
> Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). If you have to
> supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has
> Zinc to boost absorption.
>
> 6. Drink as much of 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 the throat
> into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do
> any harm.
>
> All these are simple ways to prevent, within means of most
> households.

Got this in an email today and thought it was worth sharing since it is going around!

Thanks LaViece!