Due to the N1H1 virus (Swine Flue) a lot of people are worried & could use some clarification when it comes to Quarantine & Isolation.  When dealing with some germs that can be transferred by animals or humans (ie Malaria, Bird & Swine Flue) and other contagious diseases that can be transferred from person to person there are many options available to protect yourself.

If you have to take care of someone that is sick, it’s recommended that you have a N95 mask to make sure that you do not catch the disease and to keep the contagious disease within the isolated area. Also after leaving the isolated area its highly recommended that you wash your hands to make sure there is no further spread of the disease.

When quarantine applies to you & your loved ones who have been exposed to a contagious disease but who may or may not become ill. This all depends on the person or person who became ill and what sickness they are dealing with.  If you’re dealing with the common cold, you would not have to quarantine yourself  but in the case that it is the possibility of N1H1 or any other contagious diseases, you need to remain isolated.

The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the US government agency responsible for identifying, tracking, and controlling the spread of diseases. The CDC as well as your state & local health departments have created emergency preparedness and response plans. Check with your local health department to see what programs they have in place in the case of a pandemic situation & how they plan to contain the spread of the illness.  You can also go to http://www.cdc.gov to get more information regarding what you can do to prepare your self.