Cover your cough with your sleeve (not your hand) and sing the whole “ABCs” song when you wash your hands. These are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and friends from the spread of HINI flu, also known as "swine flu." This new flu is a threat because there is little immunity against it in the general population—but so far, it remains relatively mild and amenable to treatment in the United States. Here are some resources to help you cut through the hype.

News
You can track emerging cases and keep abreast of public health advice about the new flu on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site.

Sick Days
Public health officials are calling for sick parents and children to stay home from work and school, but this is not so easy when your job comes without a single sick day. The National Partnership for Women and Families says it is critical for families and for our public health for Congress to pass the Healthy Families Act.

Talking with Children
How should parents talk about HINI with their kids? Like with any serious situation, adults can help children understand without causing panic.

• Here are some tips for talking with children from the PTA, school nurses, and others.

For Early Childhood Staff
NAEYC and the CDC have guidelines specifically for early child care providers.

In Schools
After some high-profile school closings, federal health officials say the swine flu virus is milder than initially feared and has changed its advice, it is no longer calling for school closings.

• Education Week coverage: Schools and the Flu