H1N1 Flu Answers

History has taught us that pandemics are always a threat. In 2006 the Legislature passed a bill Sen. Karen Keiser sponsored requiring each local health jurisdiction to develop pandemic flu preparedness and response plans. Under Senate Bill 6366, the plans must prioritize and address a number of issues such as public education, disease surveillance, communication systems, vaccination protocols, and strategies to maintain health care and other essential community services.

The state Legislature has dedicated millions of dollars over the last three years specifically to help the state and local communities prepare for pandemics. We must continue to dedicate resources to the vital public health strategy of disease management and control.

What you need to know

How can I protect against getting the flu?

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleansers are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Stay home if you get sick.

How does the virus spread?

The H1N1 virus is thought to spread the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. People may also become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouths or noses.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

What are the emergency warning signs in children?

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

What are the emergency warning signs in adults?

• 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

Will the seasonal flu vaccine also protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu?

The seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu.

Where can I go for the latest information on the H1N1 vaccine in Washington state?

Vaccine will be available in a combination of settings such as vaccination clinics organized by local health departments, healthcare provider offices, schools and other private settings such as pharmacies and workplaces.For more information, see http://www.doh.wa.gov/h1n1/default.htm

How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?

Infected people may be able to infect others from one day before getting sick to five-to-seven days after. This can be longer in some people, especially children and people with weakened immune systems and people infected with the new H1N1 virus.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention