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H1N1

What is the novel H1N1 flu?

The novel H1N1 flu, also known as the swine flu, is a virus that began affecting people in the United States in April 2009, and was first diagnosed in Hawaii in May 2009. It is considered highly contagious and continues to spread throughout the country. In June 2009, the World Health Organization classified the novel H1N1 flu as a pandemic.

Many of the novel H1N1 flu symptoms are similar to those of the seasonal flu. This flu varies in severity and duration, but severe illnesses and death have occurred as a result.

Symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Sore throat.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Body aches.
• Headache.
• Chills.
• Fatigue.
• Diarrhea.
• Vomiting.

Symptoms of the seasonal flu and novel H1N1 flu are similar, but the risk groups are not.

Who is at high risk for the novel H1N1 virus?

Unlike the seasonal flu, the novel H1N1 flu has been infecting a higher rate of pregnant women, young children, and those between the ages of 6 months and 24. The infection rate is the lowest in people 65 years and older.

Is a vaccine available?

Since the novel H1N1 virus is a relatively new infection, it could not be included in the seasonal flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working hard to monitor the development and distribution of a vaccine, but it is still unknown how widely available the vaccine will be this year.

Who should be vaccinated?

Since there will be high demand for the novel H1N1 vaccine when it is first introduced, it’s most important for the following groups of people to be vaccinated:

• Pregnant women.
• People who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months.
• Health care and emergency services workers.
• Children between the ages of 6 months and 4 years.

Once the above group of people receive the novel H1N1 vaccine, these groups should be next in line:

• People between the ages of 18 and 24.
• People between the ages of 25 and 64 with weakened immune systems or chronic health disorders.

It’s important to know that the novel H1N1 vaccine is not meant to replace the seasonal flu vaccine, or vice versa. However, the CDC has determined that both vaccines can be administered on the same day.

How do I help prevent the novel H1N1 flu?

To help prevent the spread of viruses and reduce your chances of getting the flu, take proper precautions to stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home and limit your contact with others if you feel sick.

As part of our commitment to keeping you healthy during flu season, HMSA is now offering one HMSA’s Online Care visit per person at no cost. With Online Care, you can talk to local doctors any time of the day or night from the comfort and privacy of your home.

Since the novel H1N1 is a relatively new virus, the latest national and local health information and recommendations are constantly changing. For the most up-to-date information on the novel H1N1 and its vaccine, please visit the CDC website or the Hawaii State Department of Health website.