Stick It to the Flu - H1N1

Flu season is likely to start earlier and be more widespread this year. The 2009 H1N1 influenza virus that triggered the April 2009 outbreak will likely be the major strain, creating the chance that the flu (seasonal and 2009 H1N1) could cause more severe illness.

Here's what you need to know to:

Prevent

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze.
• If you develop flu symptoms, go home as soon as possible.
• Stay home until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever. You shouldn't check for the absence of a fever while using ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Wash your hands often, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use alcohol-based hand cleaners if soap and water aren't available.
• You should also wash your hands:
  • Before and after preparing food or eating
  • After using the restroom
  • Before and after touching your nose, eyes or mouth
  • After touching surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent spreading germs.

Vaccinate

• Get the vaccine for seasonal flu to prevent or decrease the severity of the flu. It is usually available in October.
• Get the 2009 H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available (sometime in late October).
• The following groups should receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine first:
  • Pregnant women
  • People who live with or provide care for infants less than 6 months of age
  • Health care and emergency medical services personnel
  • Children and young adults ages 6 months to 24 years
  • Adults ages 25 to 64 years with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications

Get Well

• If you get the flu, it's important that you:
  • Stay home from work or school.
  • Rest, drink plenty of liquids and avoid using alcohol and tobacco.
  • Relieve flu symptoms with appropriate over-the-counter medications, or as directed by your doctor.
  • Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly fever, as aspirin can cause Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal disease.
  • If you're at risk for serious complications, contact your provider as soon as possible. You're considered high risk for developing complications from the flu if you're:
    • Under the age of 5 or over 65
    • Pregnant
    • Someone with a chronic medical condition, such as pulmonary disease, asthma, diabetes, neuromuscular disorders, heart disease, or a compromised immune system

Learn more about the 2009 H1NI flu and seasonal flu - read our frequently asked questions.