CDC provides tools for community organizations

National Latino Children’s Institute (NCLI) believes that Latinos need to stay informed about H1N1 in order to keep our families and communities safe and healthy. The Latino populations have a higher rate of chronic health problems (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic conditions) and are at higher risk for having complications from flu.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created a tool kit: “H1N1 Flu: A Guide for Community and Faith-based Organizations” for more action steps your organization can take to keep community members healthy during flu season.

Read how you can:

• Spread the word about what your members can do to prepare for the flu and how to stay healthy during the 2009-2010 flu season.

• Institute a “Healthy Habits” or “Flu Facts” section in your newsletter, bulletin, and Web site.

• Place a H1N1 widgets to give health tips from the CDC.

• Sponsor a community lecture series on preventing and treating the flu. Develop a “buddy” system to help ensure vulnerable and hard-to-reach community members stay connected to flu-related news and services.

Check www.flu.gov for the most up-to-date information on current recommendations.