H1N1 Influenza
Frequently Asked Questions (24 August 2010)
When will the vaccine be available?
In 2010, the H1N1 will be just a regular part of the flu vaccine, so it will not be a separate shot anymore. We are expecting our vaccine on schedule for administration beginning October 1. We have noted some pharmacies already have vaccine as of late August. I would not recommend the vaccine early at this point unless something changes.
How many shots will be needed?
For adults it is a one shot regimen.
How does this H1N1 flu present if I get it?
It is quite similar to any other flu. Flu presents with fever, chills, headache, sore throat, muscle and joint aches, marked cough, malaise, and fatigue. In addition, this flu seems able to cause some diarrhea and vomiting. It lasts 3-7 days typically. It is able to spread during non-typical flu season months (in the northern hemisphere flu season is usually December 1 to March 31).
What should I do now?
Practice being aware of washing your hands, coughing into your elbow or a tissue.
Keep abreast of this situation and be aware of any major changes in recommendations as they come up. We will try to keep you informed.
Do get a pneumonia shot if you are over 65 years old or have heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, immune deficiency, nephrotic syndrome, sickle cell disease or have had your spleen removed.
Enjoy the fall and winter, I doubt the world is ending. We are all in this boat together. But, remember, in an average year some 36,000 Americans die from influenza; many of these deaths are preventable with a flu shot. There will be more than just novel H1N1 around this year.
What happens if I get the novel H1N1 flu or regular influenza?
Stay home
Drink plenty of fluids, eat as best you can
Take some acetaminophen (Tylenol®) routinely every six hours for pain, headache, and fever
Rest
Take some cough syrup (I use Robitussin DM® 2 tsp every six hours as needed)
Return to work/school no sooner than about 24 hours after your fever clears up
If you develop significant shortness of breath, declining consciousness, marked shaking chills, or other indications of pneumonia, please come in to see us right away
