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September 8, 2009
Seasonal Flu and the H1N1 Virus

Flu season arrives with twice the risk of illness for a considerable portion of the population. Both, "seasonal flu" and the pandemic "2009 Novel H1N1 Strain" are reported in Minnesota. Immunization (flu shot) against seasonal flu is available now at Family Medical Center. A second vaccine to protect specifically against the Novel H1N1 Strain is available.

Should you bother getting a seasonal flu shot? Absolutely. Seasonal flu remains the significant concern it has always been. A regular shot will protect you and your family from the body aches, cough and misery of seasonal flu, and allow you to cross one worry from your list.

SEASONAL FLU (Influenza)

Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include these symptoms:

Fever (usually high)
Headache
Tiredness (can be extreme)
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Body aches

These symptoms do not always mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms. If you develop flu-like symptoms and are concerned about your illness, especially if are at high risk for complications of the flu, you should consult Family Medical Center. Those at high risk for complications include people 65 years or older, people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and young children.

"Ordinary” flu is not to be taken lightly. Each year in the United States, about 200,000 people are hospitalized with severe flu symptoms, and 36,000 die. The links at the bottom of this page include helpful ways to help you avoid seasonal flu – up-to-date information for parents, child-care providers and healthcare facilities.

2009 NOVEL H1N1 Strain (Swine Flu)

2009 H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. It was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This new virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread – when a person coughs or sneezes, or by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Symptoms in humans may include:

Fever (above 100º F)
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Body aches
Headache, chills and fatigue.
In some cases diarrhea and vomiting.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the 2009 Novel H1N1 vaccine for health care workers, children and young adults ages 6 months to 24 years, pregnant women and people caring for an infant younger than 6 months. This vaccine will be available nationwide by mid-October, 2009. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself from getting sick:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Throw the used tissue in the waste basket.
If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve.
Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.
Stay healthy; eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep and exercise

If you become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat and stuffy nose, you should:

Call FMC to determine if you need influenza testing or treatment.
Stay home for 7 days and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.

More Information

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm

Minnesota Department of Health
http://www.health.state.mn.us/index.html

Minnesota Department of Health has initiated a FluLine for Minnesotans. This FluLine has been initiated to offer support and treatment options for people with possible symptoms of influenza. Please call toll-free line at 1-866-259-4655