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Seasonal and H1N1 (Swine) Flu

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year.

Every year in the United States, on average:

• Five to 20 percent of the population gets the flu
• more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications; and
• about 36,000 people die from flu-related causes.

Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at high risk for serious flu complications.

Symptoms of Flu

• High fever
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults

How Flu Spreads

Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs

The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu.

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. If possible, stay home from work, school, and do not run errands when you are sick.
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Washing your hands often will help protect you from getting and spreading germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

H1N1 (Swine) Flu

What is H1N1 (Swine) Flu?

H1N1 flu is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Other countries, including Mexico and Canada, have reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in humans?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• body aches
• headaches
• chills
• fatigue

Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu infections in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Who should get the H1N1 vaccine?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that programs and providers administer vaccine to persons in the following five target groups. These five target groups are comprised of an estimated 416,000 individuals in Baltimore County.

The following priority groups should receive the H1N1 vaccine:

• Pregnant women
• Household contacts and caregivers of children under 6 months old
• Healthcare workers and Emergency Medical Services personnel
• Children and young adults aged 6 months to 24 years
• Persons aged 25-64 with health conditions that place them at greater risk of influenza complications

The vaccine will be made available to the general public at a later time. 

Which form of the H1N1 vaccine (shot or nasal spray) should I receive?

There are two forms of the vaccine: intranasal (FluMist) and injectable (needle).  Children under the age of 10 should receive two doses of the vaccine.  Adults only need one dose.

You should get FluMist if you are healthy and:

• 2 through 24 years of age
• 25 through 49 years of age who (1) live with or care for infants younger than 6 months of age or (2) are health care or emergency medical personnel

You should get the injectable vaccine if you are:

• Pregnant
• A person with underlying health problems
• A child 6 months to 2 years of age
• A person 50 years old or older

Is it wise to get the swine flu shot (H1N1) and regular flu shot on the same day?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following combinations for getting vaccine on the same day:

• H1N1 FluMist with Seasonal Shot, or

• H1N1 Shot with Seasonal FluMist; or

• H1N1 Shot with Seasonal Shot

Nasal spray versions of H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccine must be given at least 28 days apart.

Is there mercury-free vaccine available?

Thimerisol (a form of mercury) is used in very small quantities as a preservative for the multidose vials of the injectible H1N1 vaccine.  The Centers for Disease Control says that this is a safe amount for pregnant women and children.  The Baltimore County Department of Health does not have any thimerosal-free vaccine available.  If you prefer this type, please check with your health care provider.

Where can I get the H1N1 vaccine?

Pre-register for upcoming clinics that will be scheduled this month.  If you are in one of the priority groups, complete the online form.  There is no cost for the vaccine.  Someone will contact you within 10 business days to provide you with your appointment date and time.  If you do not have access to a computer, please call us at 410-887-2243 for an appointment. 

Please note the Baltimore County Department of Health does not have any thimerosal-free vaccine available.  If you prefer this type, please check with your health care provider.

Second Dose of H1N1

If your child needs a second dose, please fill out the online form closer to the date when he/she is eligible to recieve the second dose.  If you do not have access to a computer, please call us at 410-887-2243 for an appointment.

What can I do to protect myself and my family from seasonal and H1N1 flu?

Residents are encouraged to remember the flu FACTS in order to prevent the spread of contagious viruses, including seasonal and H1N1 flu:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
• Always get an annual flu shot
• Cover your cough and sneeze 
• Take time off if you have symptoms
• Seek care if your symptoms get worse

Where can I get more information?

For the most up-to-date information visit www.flu.gov.

Revised November 20, 2009