This year there are two kinds of influenza or flu to be aware of: H1N1 (Swine Flu) and the seasonal flu. What is H1N1 (Swine Flu)?
H1N1 or Swine Flu is a new influenza virus that was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Symptoms include: | What is seasonal flu?
The seasonal flu is a viral infection of the respiratory system (nose, throat, bronchial tubes, lungs). Symptoms include: fever cough sore throat runny or stuffy nose body aches headache chills fatigue
| What's the difference between H1N1 and the seasonal flu?
One of the most notable differences between H1N1 and the seasonal flu is that H1N1 seems to have a more harmful effect on those under age 25. The information analyzed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports the conclusion that 2009 H1N1 flu has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. At this time, there are few cases and few deaths reported in people older than 64 years old, which is unusual when compared with seasonal flu. (Source: CDC website ) One of the best ways to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine. It's important to note, however, that the seasonal flu shot does not prevent you from getting H1N1 (Swine Flu) and vice versa. A separate flu shot is needed for each type of the flu. Take these steps to protect your health: Get vaccinated Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
What do do if you have flu-like symptoms
Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills or fatigue. If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick
Links to reliable information: Links to County H1N1 websites
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