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| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | FEBRUARY 2018 | 17 Question: What is pneumonia and how can I prevent myself from getting it? Pneumonia is a respiratory illness that not only presents more commonly among the elderly, but also among children and those with compromised immune systems. Pneumonia can also arise as a complication among individuals with other underlying chronic conditions (comorbidities), such as cardiovascular disease and chronic lung illness. While the death rate from pneumonia alone can be as high as 15 percent, mortality rises to over one in four affected individuals (26 percent) in the presence of comorbidities. Since pneumonia is a preventable disease, and because it affects several vulnerable populations, there is an opportunity to prevent it. There are things you can do instead of or in addition to the pneumonia vaccine. Healthy habits, which help to keep your immune system strong, may reduce your risk of getting pneumonia. Good hygiene also may help. Things you can do include: Avoid smoking, wash your hands often in warm, soapy water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when you can't wash your hands, avoid exposure to people who are ill whenever possible, get enough rest and eat a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, fiber, and lean protein. If you already have a cold and are concerned that it might turn into pneumonia, talk to your doctor about proactive steps you can take. Other tips include: Make sure to get enough rest while recovering from a cold or other illness, drink lots of fluid to help eliminate congestion, use a humidifier and take supplements, such as vitamin C and zinc, to help bolster your immune system. Tips for avoiding postoperative pneumonia (pneumonia after surgery) include: Deep breathing and coughing exercises, which your doctor or nurse will walk you through, keeping your hands clean, keeping your head elevated, oral hygiene, which includes an antiseptic such as chlorhexidine, sitting as much as possible, and walking as soon as you are able. If you have pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics for you to take. You may also need breathing treatments or oxygen depending on your symptoms. Your doctor will decide based on your symptoms. You may also benefit from taking cough medicine if your cough is interfering with your ability to rest. However, coughing is important for helping your body eliminate phlegm from the lungs. Resting and drinking lots of fluids can help you get better more quickly. Info., or for a needs assessment call Jennifer Trebler Partridge at (951) 663-1060. Ask a Question Architectural Committee ARC APPROVES VINYL FENCING Some homeowners have requested using vinyl fence to replace their wood fences. We spent six months reviewing style, color, durability and maintenance for vinyl fences. They would have to be compatible in design and color with our existing wood fences. Therefore, the make (kind) and specifications for any installation of vinyl fencing are listed below. Four Seasons Hemet HOA Vinyl Fence Specifications The Architectural Review Committee has approved the use of the following vinyl fence material for replacement of wood fencing in K Hovnanian's Four Seasons Hemet Community Association Inc.. Make: Homeland Vinyl Products Inc. Supplier: Merchants Metals (Does not install fence). Model: Color - Mocha Walnut / Style - Solid Privacy Post Column Caps: Pyramid Decorative Rail Caps: To Match Height: Six Foot Gates: Same to match. Installers: Most fence (licensed) contractors (companies) can provide and install this make of vinyl fence. State Contractors License Number must be included in application. Warranty: A 30 year warranty should be provided. Almost all fences in our community are located on the property line between homes. Thus to replace a fence all adjoining property owners must agree to the project, therefore EACH property owner must submit applications (Exhibits A & B). If any owner wants to finance their cost of the project, they cannot use the vinyl fence as collateral. If one side is damaged for any reason, that side's property owner is responsible for the repair. If you attach anything to the fence you may void the warranty. Vinyl fencing can be maintained by spraying it with a garden hose or washing it with a soft brush (like washing your car).