Horn Memorial Hospital: Information About H1N1 (Swine Flu).

Seasonal and H1N1 Flu

Where can I get more information about Seasonal flu and H1N1 flu?

Iowa Department of Public Health: www.idph.state.ia.us

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov

Iowa Department of Public Health Hotline: 1-800-447-1985

Seasonal Influenza and H1N1 Influenza have many things in common, but they also have notable differences.

What is Influenza (also called the Flu)?
Influenza is the name for any contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. This is true for both Seasonal Flu and H1N1 Flu.

When is the “Flu” season?
While Seasonal Flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time Seasonal Flu activity peaks in January or later. The H1N1 Flu was first detected in people in the US in April 2009. It is still currently circulating in the US and worldwide.

How does a person get Influenza?
No matter which strain, influenza is spread mainly when a person that is infected coughs or sneezes the viruses into the air. Sometimes people may get influenza by touching something that has flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. Contrary to rumor, it is not possible to get the H1N1 Flu from eating or preparing pork.

Is there a difference in the symptoms caused by Seasonal Flu and H1N1?
Not really. Both are influenza infections and share these common symptoms:

fever(usually high)

headache

extreme tiredness

dry cough

sore throat

runny or stuffy nose

muscle aches

Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur and are more common in children than adults.

How is H1N1 different from the seasonal flu that occurs every winter?
Unlike seasonal flu that is most serious for those over 64, persons less than 24 years of age seem to be most likely to become infected with H1N1.

Can I get one vaccination to cover both types of influenza?
The viruses causing Seasonal Flu and H1N1 Flu are different, and are covered by two separate vaccines.

Who should get a seasonal flu shot?
In general, anyone who wants to reduce the chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated.

Who should get an H1N1 flu shot?
CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended that certain groups of the population receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine when it first becomes available. These target groups include: pregnant women; people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age; healthcare and emergency medical services personnel; persons between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old; and people ages of 25 through 64 years of age who are at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

Why aren’t adults age 65 and older included as a priority group to receive the H1N1 vaccine like they are for Seasonal Flu vaccine?
Current studies show that the risk of infection, hospitalization and death from the H1N1 Influenza Virus among persons age 65 years and older is less than the risk for younger age groups. Studies suggest there is some degree of pre-existing immunity to the H1N1 strains, especially among adults older than 60 years.

Will anyone be able to get the H1N1 flu shot?
After studying facts about persons that became ill with H1N1 last spring, health officials will name priority groups that have been shown to be most at risk for severe illness. Depending on the number of doses that are ready when the vaccine is first released, persons in the highest risk category may be targeted.

When will the vaccine be available?
The federal government is working with state and local public health to distribute the H1N1 vaccine. Vaccine for H1N1 should be available in limited quantities soon. Then officials expect regular shipments to continue for several weeks as more vaccine is ready. Horn Memorial Hospital/Public Health will be working with community partners to vaccinate the recommended priority groups first. Please watch for more information.

How can I protect myself and my loved ones against seasonal flu and H1N1 influenza?

Clean: clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use a hand sanitizing gel when water is not available. * Cover: cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or sneeze into the crook of your elbow. * Contain: Contain germs by staying home when ill. Don’t go to school, work, shopping or other activities outside of your home when you are sick.