Updated 08/26/2010

 

What is the H1N1 Flu?

H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza A (flu) virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of 2009 H1N1 flu was underway.

How does it spread?

H1N1 Flu spreads mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing, from contaminated hands, tissues, objects, or surfaces.

I think I and/or my child may have the flu. What should I look for?

Symptoms (generally abrupt onset) include:

• Fever over 100.5° F
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea and vomiting (this symptom has not effected everyone)

Additional screening questions:

• Close contact with someone who is sick and/or who has been diagnosed with the flu (close contact is defined by the World Health Organization and OSHA as within 6 feet).

I and/or my child meet the above criteria. What should I do?

• Stay home and avoid traveling and going to work or school, for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities.
• Call your ARC clinic to make an appointment or speak to a nurse or our information line at (512) 272-4636 to be routed accordingly.
• If you come in for an appointment, please use a mask when checking in, they are available at the check-in desk. This is to protect you as well as minimize the risk to those around you.

When should I seek emergency medical care?

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Visit the CDC web site for more information about H1N1 symptoms and treatments.

Is there a vaccine for H1N1?

Yes, The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus.