Novel H1N1 is a new strain of influenza that spreads from person-to-person just as the seasonal flu does, and is expected to be widespread this flu season.H1N1 spreads the same way seasonal flu does: from person-to-person. Mainly by:
And in some cases: Vomiting or Diarrhea
People infected with H1N1 are contagious 1 day before getting sick, and up to 7 days after that. This time period can be even longer in children and people with weakened immune systems.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health cautions anyone with the above symptoms to stay at home (except to get medical care) until at least 24 hours after the fever ends naturally (without the use of fever-reducing medication). Do not attempt to go to school or work. Doing so could spread the virus to those who are otherwise well.
Who is at Risk?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 5 groups of people are considered most vulnerable to complications from the H1N1 virus and should consider getting the vaccination for H1N1 flu when it first becomes available.
The CDC has identified the following groups as priority groups for receiving the vaccination.
- Pregnant women
- Persons six months to 24 years old
- Healthcare providers and EMS personnel
- Parents, household members or caregivers of children under 6 months
- Those under 65 with certain underlying medical conditions
One population typically at risk for seasonal flu, people over 65 years, is not considered vulnerable to complications from H1N1. However, as vaccine supply and demand for vaccine among younger age groups is being met, programs and providers should offer vaccination to people over the age of 65.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are advised to get the H1N1 vaccine during pregnancy. Evidence that influenza can be more severe in pregnant women is available from observations during previous pandemics and from studies among pregnant women who had seasonal influenza. These problems may include early labor or severe pneumonia. In addition, maternal influenza virus infection and accompanying fever place fetuses at risk for complications such as birth defects and preterm birth.
Ages 6 months to 24 years
Because children 6 months to 18 years are in close contact in schools and day care centers, the likelihood that H1N1 could spread among them is increased. Otherwise healthy adults 19 to 24 are encouraged to get vaccinated because they often live, work and study in close proximity. Therefore, H1N1 vaccination is recommended for both groups.
Healthcare Providers and EMS Personnel
Infection among the healthcare providers treating the public could potentially infect patients seeking treatment for other health problems. Also, healthcare providers are encouraged to get vaccinated so they can stay well enough to treat the rest of the population.
Parents, Household Members or Caregivers of Children Under 6 Months
Because infants under 6 months cannot be vaccinated, their parents and caregivers should take care to stay flu-free in an effort to "cocoon" them from the virus.
Adults Under 65 with Certain Underlying Medical Conditions
People with conditions including asthma, diabetes, suppressed immune systems, heart disease, kidney disease, and neurocognitive and neuromuscular disorders should receive the H1N1 vaccination to prevent further complications.
Where and When are Vaccines Available?
For the latest information about the H1N1 virus, Susquehanna Health encourages you to visit the new site created by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This web site features an explanation of the novel H1N1 virus, frequently asked questions, symptoms of the disease, how to care for sick family members, downloadable educational flyers and posters, and links to other resources.
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