H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

The 2009-10 flu season saw the emergence of the H1N1 (swine) flu. This virus caused the first influenza pandemic (global outbreak of disease caused by a new flu virus) in more than 40 years. While not certain, it is likely that 2009 H1N1 viruses will continue to spread along with seasonal viruses in the U.S. during the 2010-2011 flu season. The 2010-11 season flu vaccine includes protection for H1N1. There is no longer a separate H1N1 vaccine, as there was in 2009-10. People who got the 2009 H1N1 (pandemic) inﬂuenza vaccine, or had pandemic ﬂu in 2009, should still get the 2010-2011 seasonal inﬂuenza vaccine.

The H1N1 (swine) flu spreads from person to person in a similar fashion as most influenza viruses, through coughing and sneezes from infected individuals.

Mountain Lakes Medical Center recommends that extra attention be paid to hygiene and Universal Precautions such as washing your hands frequently. Avoid contact with your nose and eyes if possible. Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and teach children to do the same. When at work, be sure to wipe down shared equipment such as telephones or keyboards.

Symptoms

The H1N1 virus produces similar symptoms to the traditional or seasonal influenza. These include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Many people also report nausea and diarrhea.

Treatment

If you are experiencing the above symptoms, please visit your physician, or stop in to our Mt. Lakes Medical Center.

Other than seeking medical care, you should stay home and eliminate contact with others as much as possible. Drink plenty of fluids, rest, take an Over-The-Counter medicine for the fever and aches (such as Tylenol, Advil, etc.)

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) suggests that you seek immediate medical treatment if experiencing the following symptoms:

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish or gray skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Severe or persistent vomiting
Not waking up or not interacting
Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Treatment for flu, including H1N1, is available now at Mountain Lakes Medical Center in Mountain Lakes, NJ.

For more information on H1N1 (Swine) Flu, see the following websites:

Main CDC page on H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Occupational Health Issues Associated with H1N1 Influenza Virus (Swine Flu) from The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

American Medical Association H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) information

New Jersey Department of Health H1N1 Information

Disclaimer: The links above are to sites independent of MtLakesMedical.com. The pages will open in a new browser window. The information provided is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding your specific medical questions, treatments, therapies, and other needs.