As flu season approaches, the Library is taking steps to help prevent the spread of illness. More than one kind of flu virus will be spreading this season, including seasonal flu and the 2009 H1N1 influenza, also known as "swine flu." H1N1 flu is a newly identified virus that can spread from people who are infected to others through coughs and sneezes. When people cough or sneeze, they spread germs through the air or onto surfaces that other people may touch.

The Library is taking steps to prevent the spread of both H1N1 flu and seasonal flu in the following ways:
• By posting reminders in public areas to practice good hygiene habits that prevent the spread of germs, such as covering coughs and washing hands.
• Distributing H1N1 information and personal hand sanitizers to all employees.
• Providing hand sanitizer stations for public use in all 24 library locations.
• Working collaboratively with Mecklenburg County government on a business continuity plan that will address operations and communication in the event that a flu outbreak is severe.

Help us prevent others from getting sick. Remember to cover your coughs and sneezes and wash your hands often with soap and water. Learn about the flu and what you can do. To find out more about preparing for the flu, go to www.flu.gov or call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). For current local information about seasonal flu and the 2009 H1N1 influenza, visit Mecklenburg County Health Department’s web site at www.charmeck.org and click on “Health.”