By Wendi Hope Hager, Editor

Tennessee has not been immune to H1N1 Flu, also known as swine flu. In recent months, the numbers of reported cases of H1N1 have steadily grown as we head into the fall – and closer to seasonal flu months. It is predicted that as much as 30% of the population could be affected by H1N1. The good news is that most people that have contracted the virus are able to recover without medical treatment just like with seasonal flu.

Swine flu symptoms range from mild to severe and are similar to seasonal flu symptoms, which include sore throat, fever, cough, stuffy or runny nose, aches, headache, fatigue and/or chills. (Some people have reported vomiting or diarrhea.) According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 70% of people who have been hospitalized with H1N1 virus have had one or more medical conditions previously recognized as placing people at “high risk” of serious seasonal flu-related complications.

H1N1 is spread from person to person usually through coughing or sneezing. It is, however, possible to become infected by touching something that has flu viruses on it. Since H1N1 is spread in much the same way as seasonal flu, schools, hospitals and various other public buildings/areas are taking precautions to help prevent the spread of this disease. Here is what you need to know to do your part in keeping swine flu at bay.

• Flu shots. It is recommended that you get a seasonal flu shot now, according to the Knox County Health Department. It reported that your immunity will, in fact, last through the seasonal flu season, despite popular belief. It also is recommended that everyone eligible get a seasonal flu shot as well. As much as 20% of the population experiences seasonal flu.
• H1N1 vaccine. The new H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available this fall. Tennessee is expected to receive 1.3 million doses of H1N1 vaccine with people at higher risk receiving the vaccine first such as healthcare workers, emergency responders, pregnant women, children and others. So far, unlike seasonal flu, older adults (over 64) do not seem to be at higher risk for contracting H1N1.
• Stay home. If you are sick, stay home from work, school or child care. Close contact with sick people increases your risk of catching both H1N1 and seasonal influenza. People infected with swine flu or seasonal flu can infect others anywhere from 1 day before symptoms to 7 days after symptoms. With some people such as children and those with weakened immunity it can be even longer. The CDC recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever is completely gone. If someone at home is sick, you can continue to go to work or school, but you should keep track of your health and watch for any symptoms. Pay close attention to washing hands and other flu prevention tips.
• Medical care. Most people do not need to seek medical care if they are experiencing mild symptoms of both seasonal and swine flu. Those people who should see their healthcare provider include pregnant women, those who continue to get worse and people with a chronic illness such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma or emphysema.
• Wash your hands. The easiest thing everyone can do is continue to wash your hands often with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also are acceptable.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw out the tissue and wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth where germs are easily spread.
• Maintain good health as always. Rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and smoking.

It is important to note that H1N1 is not known to spread through eating or preparing pork or any other food, drinking water and other water sources such as pools or hot tubs.

Lastly, there is no need to be alarmed. So far, according to an article on MSNBC, hospitalizations and deaths are lower than the average seen for seasonal flu. It also reported that the virus has not mutated dramatically.

Careful attention to your daily habits and immediate care and treatment when symptoms emerge will help protect you and the people around you from H1N1 this season.

For more information, visit H1N1 (swine) influenza.

If you need after hours care, contact one of our University After Hours Clinics for assistance.