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The 2009 H1N1 flu is a new virus that is spreading worldwide among people. Because this virus is a different strain from current seasonal flu viruses, many of us do not have adequate protective immunity to fight off its effects. Vaccination is the best way to prevent flu infection and its complications. This is the reason that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), national health organizations and healthcare providers strongly promote vaccination for seasonal flu, and the reason why so much work has been done to develop a vaccine for the H1N1 virus. Coming Soon: Free H1N1-Vaccine Clinic Schedule
(sponsored by the City of Amarillo and the City of Amarillo Department of Public Health) The City of Amarillo is waiting to receive its allocation of H1N1 flu vaccines. Clinic times, dates and places will be posted here as soon as information is available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified groups that are highly recommended to receive the H1N1 vaccine, including pregnant women, household and caregiver contacts of children younger than six months of age (parents, siblings and child care providers), healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons from six months to 24 years of age, and people ages 25 to 64 years with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of flu complications (e.g. asthma, diabetes). However, these public flu shot clinics will be open to everyone over the age of six months, regardless of age, occupation or county of residence. Vaccines will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis as long as the supply lasts. | H1N1 Prevention Tips | Spread the Word, Not the FluSteps to prepare for flu season and limit the spread of the H1N1 virus include some everyday actions that you and your family can take to stay healthy.
Get the H1N1 vaccine! (when available)
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. No tissue available? Cough into your sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
If you get sick, stay home. Health officials recommend that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. Follow the advice of your local public health department regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other measures to reduce flu transmission. |
| H1N1 Clinic Schedule | Coming Soon: Free H1N1-Vaccine Clinic Schedule
(sponsored by the City of Amarillo and the City of Amarillo Department of Public Health)
The City of Amarillo is waiting to receive its allocation of H1N1 flu vaccines. Clinic times, dates and places will be posted here as soon as information is available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified groups that are highly recommended to receive the H1N1 vaccine, including pregnant women, household and caregiver contacts of children younger than six months of age (parents, siblings and child care providers), healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons from six months to 24 years of age, and people ages 25 to 64 years with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of flu complications (e.g. asthma, diabetes). However, these public flu shot clinics will be open to everyone over the age of six months, regardless of age, occupation or county of residence. Vaccines will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis as long as the supply lasts. |
| H1N1 Faq's | FAQs Some of the most frequently asked questions and answers are listed here. For more extensive information, visit www.flu.gov or www.texasflu.org. Do I need two shots this year?
Yes. Most people will need two injections: one that addresses the seasonal flu and one that prevents the H1N1 virus. Children between the ages of 6 months and 9 years of age may need two doses of each vaccine; contact your healthcare provider. Who is most at risk?
The following groups are the most likely to be infected by the H1N1 virus:
• Pregnant women
• Household and caregiver contacts of children younger than six months of age (e.g. parents, siblings and child care providers)
• Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel
• Persons from six months to 24 years of age
• People aged 25 to 64 years with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of flu complications (e.g. asthma, diabetes)
Although the risk for infection is less among healthy adults 25 years of age and older, vaccinations are still recommended. Babies younger than six months should not receive the vaccine. Do the benefits of the H1N1 vaccine outweigh the risks?
Yes. Seasonal flu vaccines are highly effective in preventing flu disease. The expectation is that a vaccine against the 2009 H1N1 flu will work in a similar fashion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) believe the benefits of vaccination with the H1N1 flu vaccine will far outweigh the risks. Are there some people who should not receive the H1N1 vaccine?
Babies younger than six months old and people who have a severe (life-threatening) allergy to chicken eggs or any other substance in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.
How is the virus spread?
Both H1N1 flu and seasonal flu viruses are spread from person to person through the coughs and sneezes of people who are sick with the flu. People also may get sick by touching something with the flu virus on it, such as a used tissue, eating utensils, linens, computer keyboard, etc., and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. Infected people can spread it to others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after the onset of symptoms and as long as they have fever. What are the signs and symptoms of the H1N1 flu?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, a lack of appetite and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. What should I do if I get sick?
If you become ill with flu-like symptoms, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people. This means avoiding normal activities, including work, school, travel, shopping, social events and public gatherings. To ease your symptoms:
Get plenty of rest
Drink clear fluids
Take over-the-counter, fever-reducing medications If your symptoms become more severe or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your healthcare provider. Are there prescription medicines that treat the H1N1 virus?
Yes. There are drugs your doctor may prescribe for treating both seasonal and the H1N1 flu. These medications can make you better faster and may also prevent serious complications.
How long should a sick person stay home?
People with the H1N1 flu should stay home until they are fever-free (without medication) for at least 24 hours, typically 5-7 days. |
Last Updated on 10/26/09 at 15:06:16
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