H1N1 Information

by Joni Brunkhorst

H1N1 Update

HUMAN TRANSMISSION

H1N1 (swine) influenza is a virus that has emerged and is causing illness worldwide. The transmission occurs when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These viral droplets can survive 1-8 hours on different surfaces. People touch these infected surfaces and then touch their own mouth, nose, or eyes. An infected person may actually be contagious 24 hours before they display symptoms. SYMPTOMS include fever greater than 100, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue. Call your physician if these symptoms occur.

HOW LONG CAN AN INFECTED PERSON SPREAD H1N1 FLU TO OTHERS?

People with H1N1 influenza infections should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possibly up to 7 days following the onset of illness. Children may be contagious for even longer periods of time. Children are allowed to return to school after being fever-free for 24 hours without any medications being taken to reduce a fever. As with any childhood illness, they should have no medications containing aspirin.

WHAT CAN I DO TO PROTECT MYSELF?

There is a vaccine available. Also there are everyday actions to help prevent the spread of germs that cause illness:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw this tissue away after 1 use. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough,or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Wash frequently throughout the day, and before you eat.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are spread this way. Adopt a “no hands by your face” habit.
Try to avoid close contact with persons that are ill.
If you get sick, stay home from work, school, church, and shopping. Limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. Keep your child home if they are ill so they do not make others sick.