| H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Information Many people are worried about H1N1 flu (swine flu). Families, schools, health care providers and government agencies need to work together to limit the spread of the virus and protect anyone who is at risk of serious illness from the flu.
Tips on how to prevent the spread of germs
The flu (influenza) is spread by coughing, sneezing and unclean hands. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages everyone to prevent the spread of germs by doing the following: - Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
- Put used tissues in the trash.
- Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing. Wash with soap and water, or with alcohol-based hand cleaner.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school, and limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. People should stay home at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100°F), or signs of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
Who should get vaccinated
Vaccines play a large role in preventing illness. There are two types of flu vaccine and both are important. - Seasonal flu vaccine. It is important that all children ages 6 months through 18 years receive seasonal flu vaccine now. Call your pediatrician today to schedule an appointment.
- H1N1 vaccine. A separate vaccine to protect against H1N1 flu (swine flu) has been developed. The first people who should receive the H1N1 vaccine include:
- Children ages 6 months through 24 years
- Parents and caretakers of infants younger than 6 months
- Pregnant women
- Health care workers and emergency services personnel
- Adults ages 25 to 64 with chronic health conditions
A note about antivirals
Most children will recover with rest and care at home. People in high-risk groups may need antiviral medicine. Antiviral medicine may help shorten the length of illness if taken soon after infection. If your child is in a high risk group and you suspect your child has influenza, or if your child has more severe influenza symptoms, call your pediatrician.
Additional online resources
For Parents/Caregivers:
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