Flu Update

The CDC continues to recommend flu vacation. We continue to have limited supplies of Flu vaccine available. Booster shots are recommended for patients 9 years and under who have received one dose of H1N1. Your receptionist can assist you to schedule a vaccination.

Please check back frequently for updates as this message will be updated with any changes in the H1N1 and Seasonal Flu vaccine availability.

STAY INFORMED

Visit the following websites for updates:

www.cdc.gov

www.health.state.mn.us

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES - PROTECT YOURSELF

Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid hugging, kissing and shaking hands when greeting

Avoid close contact with sick people (those with fever and cough)

Wash hands with soap and water thoroughly and often

Get vaccinated-contact your physician for H1N1 vaccine availability

Practice good health habits (sleeping, eating, and keeping physically active).

KEY FACTS

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF THIS VIRUS?

H1N1 is a major flu strain that can infect many people. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Also there can be diarrhea and vomiting. Most will experience mild illness, while severe or fatal in some cases in certain groups of people.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SEASONAL FLU AND PANDEMIC FLU?

The age groups affected by the pandemic are generally younger. This is true for those who infect easily, which can lead to severe or fatal illness. To date, most severe cases and deaths have occurred in adults under the age of 50 years, with deaths in the elderly comparatively rare. This is in stark contrast with seasonal flu, where around 90% of severe and fatal cases occur in people 65 years of age or older.

HOW DOES IT SPREAD?

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Sometimes infection occurs through touching surfaces or objects- with flu viruses on it- and then touching the mouth or nose.

BE PREPARED/ GET VACCINATED

WHO SHOULD BE VACCINATED?

Vaccines are the most powerful public health tool for control of influenza. Contact your physician for H1N1 vaccine availability.

High-risk groups include:

· Pregnant women

· infant caregivers

· Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel

· EVERYBODY between the ages of 6 months and 24 years

· Those between 25 and 64 with health issues

IF YOU GET SICK

Stay home from work, school or crowded places

Seek medical advice immediately