H1N1 FLU FAQ & Links
Q: How is the Novel H1N1 flu different from the seasonal flu?
A: So far, the symptoms of H1N1 flu are about the same as seasonal flu. High fever, cough, headache, fatigue, and body aches. There may be slightly more diarrhea with the Novel H1N1 flu. "Seasonal," or typical flu, kills 36,000 Americans every year, so it can cause serious illness. H1N1 flu is a new flu strain that the population does not have immunity to. It seems to be hitting younger people (children, teens, and young adults) more than the seasonal flu. It also has the potential to cause serious illness.
Q:What precautions can I take regarding the flu and H1N1 flu?
A: Most importantly, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (then throw out the tissue). Cough into your elbow, rather than hand, and encourage others to also. If you are ill, stay home to protect others. Staying at least 3 feet away from people who are sick will also help. Get your regular (seasonal) flu shot and an H1N1 vaccine when that becomes available.
Q: What else should I do?
A: Stay informed of the latest developments regarding H1N1. As information about this outbreak is constantly changing, please check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/h1n1 and the World Health Organization at www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/ for the most-updated information about H1N1.
Q: Is there a vaccine for the swine flu?
The novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and beginning to be distributed through state and local health departments. This vaccine is in addition to the usual flu vaccine. Once the vaccine is available, Charis Clinic will follow CDC guidance as to who will receive it first. A priority list can be viewed at www.cdc.gov/h1n1. The vaccine has been scheduled as a series of two shots for children under 10, with a single shot usually being effective for teens and adults.
Q: What do I do if I think have the flu?
A: Swine flu, like other flu, is a respiratory illness. The common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you have a fever higher than 100 degrees along with other symptoms, please call your medical provider to determine whether you should be tested for flu. It is very important that you STAY HOME for at least 24 hours after the fever has passed. Rest is very important to your body's ability to fight this infection off successfully. The following warning signs need emergency medical attention: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, mental confusion, recurrent vomiting and dehydration, and pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen. If you seem to be getting better, but then worsen with a cough with sputum or have a fever higher than 101 after 3-4 days of illness, you may have a complication of the flu, and should obtain an urgent appointment. Note that among our partners, Lake Serene Clinic in Lynnwood is open EVERY day of the year.
Q: What is Tamiflu, and should I be taking it?
A: Tamiflu is an anti-viral medicine available by prescription. However, at this time the public health recommendation is that Tamiflu only be used if your health care provider determines you are ill with H1N1 and that you are at increased risk for complications. This strain of flu already is developing some resistance to anti-viral medications, and unnecessary use or overuse of antiviral medications may make them ineffective when they are really needed.