Swine Flu Scams
H1N1 threatens more than your health
Linh Bui
Story Created:
Dec 4, 2009 at 5:28 PM EST
Story Updated:
Dec 4, 2009 at 10:31 PM EST
"If you watch the news or read the newspaper, you can normally pick out what's going to be the next big scam,” says Kelvin Collins with the Better Business Bureau.
One topic that's grabbed the public's attention is the swine flu.
Collins says numerous scams have popped up surrounding H1N1.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put out an advisory this week about fraudulent e-mails asking people to sign up for swine flu vaccine registrations. But no such vaccination program exists.
"Never click on a like that you're unfamiliar with. And never ever ever enter in any type of information into a Web site or an e-mail that you're not familiar with,” Collins says.
The Federal Drug Administration has also warned the public to stay away from counterfeit drugs advertised as flu virus remedies.
Health officials say there's no “magic pill” to prevent you from getting the flu. The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated. They say to get an H1N1 vaccine and the regular flu vaccine.
Another precaution you can take is simply washing your hands.
Dr. German Gonzalez with the North Central Health District says, "If for any reason you do get sick, consult with your primary health care provider to get treatment with anti-virals. There are specific medications that are prescribed by your physician - you can not get it over the counter.
Officials urge citizens beware of scams throughout the flu season, which should peak in February or March.
But once flu season is over, they say it'll only be a matter of time before scammers pick a new hot topic to target.
If you have any questions about the swine flu, it’s best to contact your doctor.
If you’ve think you’ve been the victim of scam, call the Better Business Bureau at (478) 742-7999.
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