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2009 Novel Influenza A and H1N1

Why is everyone talking about the H1N1 (Swine Flu)?
H1N1 is a new or "novel" flu virus that is spreading quickly. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the Pandemic Alert level to 6: Widespread Human Infection.

• Flu vaccine made last year does not work against this virus.
• Humans do not have immunity to the H1N1 virus, especially young and middle aged people.
• H1N1 may be harder to detect with standard screening.

What are the signs and symptoms of the 2009 H1N1 virus?
Watch for signs and symptoms of flu in yourself, relatives, and co-workers.

• aches and pains, headache, sore throat
• sudden fever
• cough
• head and lung congestion
• possible sudden dizziness
• possible diarrhea and/or nausea

What if I have symptoms?
If you need to be seen at your doctor's office, clinic, or hospital, you may be asked to follow some simple precautions to help prevent the spread to others. These may include the following.

Practice Cough Etiquette

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or cough into your sleeve.
• Dispose of tissues in the trash and wash or sanitize hands immediately after use.

If you are coughing

• You may be asked to wear a mask and wait in a separate area until you can be seen by a healthcare provider.
• Do not touch your face, nose, or eyes.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 15 seconds or use a hand sanitizer.

Avoid crowds and/or large gatherings

What do I need to do?

• Stay home from work or school if there are signs or symptoms of flu. The CDC recommends that you remain home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of fever reducing medicines).
• Get lots of rest, drink plenty of liquids, and avoid alcohol and tobacco.
• There are over the counter (OTC) medicines to relieve the symptoms of the flu. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly fever.
• Remember that serious illness from the flu is more likely in certain groups of people such as the following:
• people 65 and older
• pregnant women
• people with certain chronic medical conditions
• young children
• Most people with the Novel Influenza A/ H1N1 virus recover without needing medical care.
• Antiviral drugs should be used to treat severe flu illness (example: hospitalized patients or those at high risk for complications from the disease).

If signs or symptoms of serious illness occur, contact your health care provider.

More Information & Resources
Español: Nueva Influenza A H1N1 2009
2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine - the nasal spray vaccine
2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine - the "flu shot"