DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

What are YOU gonna do about…INFECTION?It is important to be very careful and protect yourself against the spread ofdisease or infection when caring for an open wound or a wound that isbleeding. (Review TIPS ON REDUCING THE SPREAD OF GERMS ORDISEASES at beginning of this section)INFECTIONGerms are the main cause of an infection so whenever you perform first aidon anyone (including yourself), there is always a chance of spreading germsor diseases. All injuries - from tiny cuts to massive wounds - must becleaned immediately to reduce the chances of infection! And keepcleaning a wound until it is completely healed.Things to watch for…Sore or wound is red and swollen or has red streaksSore or wound is warm or painfulWound may open and ooze clear or yellowish fluidFever or muscle aches or stiffness in the neckWhat to do…• ALWAYS wash your hands before and after caring for awound… even if it’s your own!• Immediately wash minor wounds with soap and water orrinse with hydrogen peroxide.• Cover wound with sterile bandage or gauze -- best to cleanand change bandage daily. An open wound is a doorwayfor germs and infection to get inside the body.• Use an antibiotic cream or gel to help disinfect the woundand kill germs. (Note: don’t use cream or gel if wound isfrom a bite since it might seal wound and keep it fromdraining.)• Boost your immune system to help fight infection (liketaking astragalus, Vitamin C, garlic, mushrooms, zinc, anda good multiple vitamin + mineral supplement, etc. - butcheck with your doctor first if taking any prescriptionmedications).• If infection gets worse, you may want to see a doctor.Also may want to review INFECTIOUS DISEASES on next page.www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325195