Washington, DC—NCLR (National Council of La Raza) and the Office of Minority Health (OMH) today announced a partnership to help educate Latinos and others about precautions they can take to minimize the spread of the H1N1 flu (swine flu). NCLR will also work with its network of community-based organizations to monitor the situation on the ground, assess communities’ needs for information and assistance, and disseminate pertinent information and provide timely updates to Hispanic communities nationwide.



“Public health experts are calling for prudence, not panic, as the best way to ensure the well-being of all Americans. We want to help make sure that the public is aware of developments and the steps they can take to prevent the spread of the virus,” said Janet Murguía, NCLR President and CEO.



In light of a number of public gatherings, festivals, sports events, and other activities that are taking place this weekend, NCLR, OMH, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge the public to take the following precautions:



· Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you sneeze or cough. Throw the tissue in the trash after one use.

· Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based sanitizing gels are also effective.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. This is the way in which germs are transmitted.

· Avoid close contact with persons who are sick.

· If you are sick, it is recommended that you stay home and not go to work, school, or other public events. Avoid proximity with other individuals to protect them from getting sick.



In addition, the CDC is urging that anyone who becomes ill, or experiences the following warning signs and symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:



Adults:

· Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

· Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

· ...