We would like to reassure you that there have been no signs or symptoms of the H1N1 at the Good Neighbor Society.

Flu viruses are spread from person to person by coming into contact with an infected person who is coughing or sneezing.

There are several things you can do to prevent the spread of any kind of flu:

1. Encourage your loved one to receive an influenza vaccine annually.  The flu vaccine given last fall will not prevent the H1N1 flu, but will give protection against other flu viruses.  GNS offers and administers influenza vaccines to our residents annually.
2. Cover your mouth when coughing, use a single use tissue or cough into your elbow.
3. Wash your hands often.  As many germs are spread via the hand, hand washing is the best prevention against being infected by the flu viruses. 
4. Avoid touching your mouth, eyes or nose.  These are areas of entry for viruses or bacteria. 
5. If you are ill with flu like symptoms please stay at home and get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
6. In an effort to keep our residents healthy we ask that you not bring ill children into the Good Neighbor Society. 

GNS will continue educating families, residents and staff on the importance being pro-active in preventing the flu.  GNS will continue to monitor for signs and symptoms of influenza and proceed as needed.  Instant hand sanitizers have been placed at the major entrances to our facility.   

If you have any questions or concerns please contact Kara Winkowitsch, DON at 563-927-3907.

Below are some links to additional information concerning the H1N1 virus:

H1N1 Flu Facts  
Preventing the Flu (CDC site)
U.S. Info (CDC site) 
Things you can do (CDC site)