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What is the 2009 novel H1N1 (swine) flu?
2009 novel H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. It was
first detected in the U.S in April 2009 and has now spread worldwide. The
U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health
(IDPH), and the Cook County Department of Public Health are coordinating the
response to this new flu outbreak in our area.
What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu?
The symptoms are very similar to seasonal flu. They include:
Cough, Fever, Sore throat, Headache,
Chills, Fatigue, Body Aches.
Some people may complain of diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
How can we keep our families and ourselves healthy?
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue and discard it immediately after use. If you
don’t have a tissue cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
- Wash your hands often; especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol based
hand cleaners are effective when hand washing facilities are not available.
- Avoid touching your face; eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread easily through
this type of contact.
- If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.
What should I do if I get sick?
- If you develop flu-like symptoms; nausea, fever, sore throat, body aches
runny nose; contact your health care provider. Contact your doctor if you
are at all concerned or worried about your symptoms.
- Stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to prevent
the spread of the illness to anyone else.
- The CDC is currently recommending that you stay at home for at least 24
hours after your fever has subsided (without the use of any medication)
unless you need to obtain medical care or other necessities.
What about children and the elderly population?
It appears that healthy elderly people may have some immunity to this virus
however, this is not a documented fact. People that have other medical
conditions such as diabetes or respiratory or cardiac problems may have more
severe symptoms if they acquire the virus.
Children appear to have more severe symptoms when they acquire this new flu
virus. They need to watched closely. If you have any concerns regarding the
severity of symptoms in a child you are advised to seek medical care
immediately.
Flu Vaccine Facts
The CDC recommends that you get vaccinated for both the seasonal flu and the
novel H1N1 flu.
Children under 9 years old will most likely require 2 vaccinations while
adults may only require one dose of the vaccine.
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