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H1N1 (Swine flu)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current H1N1 (swine flu) situation?
H1N1 flu is no longer considered a
public health emergency in the United States or a world-wide
pandemic. However, H1N1 virus is still circulating in many parts of
the world. It is likely that the 2009 H1N1 virus will continue to
spread for years to come, like other influenza viruses. For that
reason, it is important for everyone six months and older to get
vaccinated. This year’s flu vaccine provides protection against H1N1
and two other flu viruses. A separate vaccination for H1N1 is not
necessary.
How does H1N1 (swine
flu) fit in the overall flu picture?
H1N1 flu is a novel virus that first
appeared in the United States in April 2009 and then spread around
the world. That was followed by a second larger wave in the fall. H1N1 virus has been circulating in the world for over a year,
and now that we understand it better, it has become one of the many
types of flu we deal with on an ongoing basis.
H1N1 flu
is similar to flu that occurs every year in the U.S. in that most
people who become ill recover without requiring medical treatment.
However, all types of flu can cause more severe illness including
pneumonia, respiratory failure and death. Every year, around 200,000
people are hospitalized for flu.
Those
most at risk of suffering adverse affects from influenza of any type include:
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Children under five years old, but especially those under two
years old.
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Pregnant women.
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Adults 65 years and older.
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Residents of long-term care facilities.
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People with certain medical conditions such as chronic lung, heart, kidney or liver disease;
diabetes; sickle cell anemia; immunosuppression or receiving
chemotherapy for cancer.
The
H1N1 virus is transmitted from person to person in the same way as
other flu viruses--when an infected person coughs or sneezes near
another person and the virus is taken in through the mouth, nose or
eyes. You can also get the virus by touching a contaminated surface
such as a countertop or doorknob, and then touching your mouth, nose
or eyes.
Is there an H1N1
vaccine?
H1N1 protection
is provided in the 2010-2011 flu vaccine now available in most
areas. It is no longer necessary to get a separate H1N1 vaccine. We
recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated.
Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza and its
complications.
Find out more about this season's flu vaccine.
How do I avoid
getting or spreading the flu?
These simple actions
can help prevent the spread of any
flu including H1N1:
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Get
vaccinated.
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Cover your
nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the
tissue in the trash after you use it and clean your hands.
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Wash your
hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or
sneeze. If you don’t have soap and water, use alcohol-base hand
gel or disposable wipes.
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Avoid
touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
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Try to avoid
close contact with sick people; don’t share glasses or eating
utensils.
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Wash a sick
person's laundry in hot water and dry it on high. Wear gloves or
wash your hands after touching laundry.
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Stay home
from work or school if you are sick.
How could H1N1 (swine
flu) affect my travel plans?
The H1N1 flu virus is still circulating in some
parts of the world. Before you travel, find out which vaccinations
or other precautions are recommended for the countries you plan to
visit. Current travel advice is available on the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler’s Health
webpage.
More information
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