Leola Family Health Center will try to be among the first to receive the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available. The following answers were compiled primarily from the CDC’s (Center for Disease Control) web site.

 

Why was this flu first named swine flu?  The first tests showed some genes very similar to those found in an influenza virus in pigs in North America.  But further study has shown it to be closer to those in pigs from Europe.  There is no problem with eating pork.

 

What are the symptoms?  Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.  A number have reported diarrhea and vomiting.  Symptoms range from mild to severe and have caused hospitalization and death.

 

Who is most at risk?  Unlike our seasonal flu, the older population does not seem to be at as high a risk unless they have some other “high risk” diseases.  The first doses of vaccine that become available will be recommended for 5 target groups: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger that 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons between the ages of 6 months through 24 years and people ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk because of   pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease, neurocognitive and neuromuscular diseases or have  a compromised immune systems.

 

How is the disease spread?  It is spread in much the same way as our seasonal flu, by coughing and sneezing and getting those viruses into our nose, mouth and eyes.

 

How do you prevent the spread of the H1N1?  As with seasonal flu, wash your hands frequently and completely (for 20 seconds). Cover your coughs and sneezes and throw tissues away immediately and wash your hands.

Stay out of the public except to seek medical attention.  Stay at home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities. Alcohol based hand cleaners can also be used if you use enough and rub until your hands are dry.

 

How do you protect yourself from getting the virus?  Wash your hands frequently. Sanitize door handles, bathroom knobs, bedside tables and other places frequently touched by people.  The virus is thought to be viable on a surface for 2 to 8 hours.  Keep your fingers out of your eyes, nose and mouth. Stay out of close contact with people who are sick. 

 

What are emergency warning signs for children?

Fast breathing or trouble breathing

Bluish or gray skin color

Not drinking enough fluids

Severe or persistent vomiting

Not waking up or not interacting

Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held

Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

 

What are emergency warning signs for adults?

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

Sudden dizziness

Confusion

Severe or persistent vomiting

Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

 

Are there medications to treat the H1N1 infection?

Yes, your doctor can write a prescription for medicines which can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster.  They may also prevent serious flu complications.

 

How do I clean after someone has been sick with the flu?

Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167 degrees to 212 degrees F).  Chemical germicides such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents, iodine-based antiseptics, and alcohols are effective if used in proper concentration and for a sufficient length of time.  Read the product label.

Linens and tableware should be washed thoroughly but do not need to be washed separately.  Wash with household detergents, and linens can be tumbled dry on a hot setting.  Avoid “hugging” dirty linens and after handling, wash hands and arms completely.

 

How soon will the vaccine be available?  It is currently being tested on humans and may be available in late Sept or October, 2009.  It will be distributed much the same way as the seasonal flu shot.  It is not known for sure yet whether it will be one or two shots, or if it can be given at the same time as the regular flu shot.   

 

These answers have been compiled from the CDC’s web site.

 

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