INFLUENZA PREVENTION

    The recent news headlines and media coverage on the global outbreak of Swine Flu has caused repercussions around the world. Since hundreds of strains of influenza (flu) are present in all countries of the world, it is imperative to know what steps to take to prevent the spreading of this disease. Here are some helpful safety tips on flu prevention.

1. Frequently wash your hands for at least twenty seconds with warm water and soap. Scrub underneath the fingernails, and in between all fingers.
   

    

2. Carry hand sanitizer with you at all times and use frequently throughout the day and night.
   

    

3. Avoid people who are sick, or stand at least three feet away from those who are sick. Flu germs are airborne, and can infect those in the general area of the sick person.
   

    

4. When you have been in public places, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth until you wash or sanitize your hands.
   

    

5. Carry tissues with you to use for sneezing and coughing.
   

    

6. Cover your mouth when you cough and your nose when you sneeze.
   

    

7. You may elect to wear a surgical mask for protection from incoming germs, or to provide protection to others when you are sick.
   

    

8. Stay away from others when you are sick. Do not go to work or other public places when you are sick. Avoid traveling when you are sick.
   

    

9. Use an antibacterial spray to clean the air around where sick people have been, such as in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc.
   

    

10. Follow health and travel recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, or from local authorities. Avoid traveling to places with flu outbreaks.
    

     

Use the information provided online from authoritative sources, such as the Center for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov and the Red Cross at www.redcross.org , to further protect you from flu.

TRAVEL IS GOING TO THE DOGS

    Just when the complaints seem to be rising about the airlines- the seats don’t have enough legroom, the tickets are expensive even with the drop in fuel prices, the flights are always late, etc.- some airlines have found a new passenger venue, and one that wouldn’t verbalize complaints. A new breed of airlines will have flights catering to the canines and felines their passengers.

A new company situated in Delray Beach, FL called Pet Airways will begin by offering pet only flights, for an average of $250.00 each way, and flights are due to launch in July, 2009. With the promise of no pets flying in the cargo holds, pet owners can be assured that their dog or cat will have the best of travel experiences. The flights will start by going to commuter airports, but will be expanding to international airports by the end of 2009.

Many major airlines have increased the fees and tightened restrictions for pet travel, so the advent of pet only airlines could be a viable solution for those who wish to have their pet accompany them wherever they travel. The owners of Pet Airways promise fully lit, climate controlled seating for all “pawsengers”, as well as pet check-in lounges.

However, if you think you will be able to hold your Fido or Fifi during the actual air flight, that won’t happen as owners have to fly separately. The good news, however, is that you can track their progress on the company’s Web site. Now we know that comfortable and accessible traveling has gone to the dogs.

NATIONAL DO NOT CALL REGISTRY

    If you have not already been informed, as of May, 2009, your cell phone may be accessed by telemarketing companies. As if you didn’t have enough of those recorded phone calls on your landline, now the wireless companies are releasing your cell phone numbers to the outside world! The worst part of having your cell phone accessed by telemarketers is that now you will actually have to pay for all of their aggravating calls!

    However, there is a reprieve if you act quickly. If you call this toll free number, you can list your cell phone on the National Do Not Call Registry for cell phones. The number is: 1 (888) 382- 1222, and you must call from the cell phone you want to be covered. The entire call can be accessed in English or another language, and the process only takes about 30 seconds to complete. Once you are registered in the National Do Not Call Registry, the coverage lasts on your cell phone number for five years. If there are any infringements on your cell number after you register, you can call the National Do Not Call Registry for help in eliminating the aggravating callers.

    Please take the time to call this toll free number if you want to save money, time, and aggravation. Please pass this information on to the members of your family and friends so they can also benefit from this national initiative. Good luck in maintaining your privacy and in maintaining your personal cost savings!