What to Know About H1N1 Influenza

What to Know About H1N1 Influenza...

The first U.S. case of H1N1 flu, or swine flu, occurred in April 2009. Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 1 million Americans may have been infected by the virus. Most people infected with H1N1 flu have recovered without medical treatment.

Children with chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, metabolic conditions neurologic and neuromuscular disorders are at higher risk of having complications from the flu. Additionally, children under the age of five are at higher risk than older children. Understanding the flu and being knowledgeable about the precautions you can take can ensure a healthy fall season for you and your children.

What is H1N1?
The H1N1 influenza, or swine flu, is a new and different influenza virus that is spreading in countries throughout the world. H1N1 is spread the same way the seasonal flu spreads: from person to person. This can include coughing, sneezing or touching something like a doorknob that has germs and then touching your mouth.

What are the symptoms of H1N1?
Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to the regular seasonal flu. Signs include fever, cough, sore throat, chills, fatigue, diarrhea, headaches, and body aches. Contact a doctor if your child has a high fever, bluish or gray skin color, trouble breathing, severe or persistent vomiting, not waking up or interacting, or cannot keep food or liquids down.

Prevention First
There are many effective ways to help prevent against flu viruses.
• Clean those hands! Washing your hands is one of the easiest and most effective ways of preventing the spread of germs. Always use soap and water for at least fifteen seconds; alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid sick people. Try to keep your child from having close contact with sick people, including anyone in the household. If you or your child is sick, stay home and rest.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
• Keep surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant.
• Practice good health habits including, eating healthy, drinking plenty of fluids, keeping active and getting enough sleep.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash immediately.
• Check with a doctor regarding proper flu vaccinations.

For more information on the H1N1 flu or the seasonal flu, please visit www.cdc.gov or contact your child’s pediatrician.