H1N1 Swine Flu - How Can Filtration Help.
The Swine Flu – What can you do as a home owner to minimize your risk?
With the recent coverage of the latest emerging flu strain (the so-called swine flu, H1N1), home owners are scrambling to see what they can do within their home to mitigate the risk of possible infection.
What is H1N1?
This particular strain of influenza, H1N1, is being called the swine flu, but it’s actually a combination of swine flu, avian flu and the common flu. According to industry experts, in its current form, H1N1, it isn’t particularly robust. However, viruses have a way of mutating and getting stronger, and this could become more evident as time passes.
The term “Pandemic” simply describes the fact that the virus is showing up in several countries across the globe at more or less the same time. Although the term sounds bad, in fact it does not describe the virus’s strength, it is more of a geographic indicator. The CDC – Center for Disease Control is in a cautious – yet hopefully prepared mode. Locally, schools have closed early and there have been various concentrations of the flu throughout the US.
How does it Spread?
H1N1 has been shown to spread like the common flu, via small airborne droplets (like those generated by a sneeze). Thus – we need to take the general precautions of washing our hands frequently, and being acutely aware of the risks associated in public areas. Should someone come in direct contact or physically transmit the virus (i.e. sneezing, putting their hands in their mouth or eyes), there is no help as transmission has occurred. But prior to direct contact, once a person sneezes – the virus and saliva atomizes in the air – and it now becomes airborne.
So how do you kill this flu?
According to industry experts, UV systems for air treatment and Whole House Air Cleaners would have a preventative effect on the environment.
This is where technology can really help. The airborne contaminates can be spread through your home HVAC system – BUT with UV lights and IAQ equipment (whole house air filtration) your risk can be minimized. Killing and capturing the virus before it can be spread. Thus the need to lesson the risk associated with the expansion of this virus.
Take a look at your HVAC system – the filtration and if you have any UV protection associated with it. We may be able to help you with the addition of either or both of the products recommended. Search on Indoor Air Quality, Whole House Aircleaners and UV Lights.
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