Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Fall 2009)

H1N1 (Swine) Flu Could Infect Many
New flu needs separate vaccine

Some people took the summer off. Swine flu did not.

Novel H1N1 influenza, as it is now known, was busy making people sick all around the world – and in our own backyard. That was unusual for the time of year, and it’s one reason many health experts expect cases of H1N1 influenza to increase dramatically this fall.

The H1N1 virus could return in a more serious form in the fall. For most people, if the virus doesn’t change, it will cause illness similar in severity to seasonal flu. Because it is a new virus to which most people don’t have any immunity, many more people are expected to get sick in a short period of time.

Children, pregnant women and young adults have been hit hardest by H1N1 and are at higher risk for infection and hospitalization. Even healthy children – and especially those with chronic medical conditions – can have a severe illness or even death from H1N1 (or seasonal) influenza.

Fortunately, people can help prevent the spread of H1N1 influenza by using the same good habits that protect against seasonal flu. That includes frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when you are sick. And, as with seasonal flu, vaccination will be your best protection.

A vaccine to prevent H1N1 should be available in mid- to late October and may require two doses at least. This new vaccine will not replace the regular seasonal flu shot. People who need both shots should get both. Since children, young adults and pregnant woman are the most likely to become ill from H1N1, they will be among the first to get the new vaccine.

As with seasonal flu shots, vaccination for H1N1 influenza will be entirely voluntary.

The situation with H1N1 influenza is changing all the time. Watch for local updates on where the H1N1 vaccine will be available.

Seasonal Flu Still a Threat
Annual flu shot more important than ever

Don’t let the news confuse you. If you always get a seasonal flu shot, you should continue to do so. And if a flu shot hasn’t been part of your annual routine, this year might be a good time to start.

Recent events are a reminder of just how unpredictable influenza can be and why prevention — including getting a flu shot — is so important.

“Since April, we’ve been largely focusing on novel H1N1 influenza, but it’s important that in the midst of this we don’t forget the significant risks we face every year from seasonal flu. This year it’s especially important that people do whatever they can to protect themselves, the people they care
for and the community from influenza,” says Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, director of the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment.

“When it comes to protection from the flu, vaccines remain the most important and effective tools. Knowing that, we hope that Larimer County residents, especially those over 65, will get their seasonal flu shots as soon as they are available,” LeBailly says.

In addition to older adults, others who should get an annual flu shot include children, pregnant women, those with certain chronic medical conditions and anyone who lives with or cares for these higher risk individuals.

This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are encouraging people to get their seasonal flu shot as soon as vaccine becomes available in September. (See Health District flu clinic schedule, page 8.) Protection will last through the season. Can’t get your flu shot now? Later in flu season is okay, too; it’s never too early or too late to get your seasonal flu shot. A flu shot is your single best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against influenza.

Avoid close contact
Keep your distance from others when you are sick and from others who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick
When sick, stay home from work, school or places where people gather, if possible.

Cover your mouth and nose
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your arm when sneezing or coughing.

Clean your hands
Wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

Practice other good health habits
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

* Health conditions associated with higher risk include chronic disorders such as diabetes or heart, kidney or lung disease, or a weakened immune system, such as from medications or HIV infection.
** In addition to people of any age with health conditions noted above (*), people at higher risk for medical complications from influenza include young children, pregnant women, and adults 50 and older.
Note: Once vaccination programs are meeting demand for vaccine among people in these initial target groups, vaccination recommendations may be expanded to other people. Recommendations may change as the H1N1 epidemic unfolds.

Source: Adapted from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention