H1N1 Updates
Helpful link for AVUHSD youth and families:
Please visit the Los Angeles County Health Department website directly for information sheets, clinic schedules and required forms at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/
Information courtesy of LA County Health Department:
What is Pandemic H1N1 flu (formerly known as swine flu)? Pandemic H1N1 flu is a respiratory infection caused by a new flu virus responsible for large outbreaks in many parts of the world. It has led to many hospitalizations and some deaths in certain parts of the U.S. population.
Is Pandemic H1N1 flu the same as the seasonal flu? No. The virus that causes Pandemic H1N1 flu is a new type of flu virus that is different from the virus thatcauses the seasonal flu. Both types of the flu can be serious. The good news is that getting a vaccine and practicing simple prevention steps such as washing your hands often can prevent them both.
How is Pandemic H1N1 flu spread? The main way that influenza viruses spread is through droplets from a sick person when they cough or sneeze. Flu viruses can also live on surfaces such as tables, faucets or doorknobs for up to eight hours. You can become infected with Pandemic H1N1 flu by touching an infected surface, then touching your eyes,nose, or mouth.
How serious is Pandemic H1N1 flu? Most people will recover from the Pandemic H1N1 flu without treatment. However, just like the seasonal flu, Pandemic H1N1 flu can lead to serious health problems. Pregnant women; adults younger than 25 years of age; young children; and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, are more likely to have complications from the flu.
What are the symptoms of Pandemic H1N1 flu? Many of the symptoms of Pandemic H1N1 flu are the same as the symptoms of the seasonal flu. These include fever, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and tiredness. The Pandemic H1N1 flu may also cause diarrhea and vomiting and can lead to serious complications for some people.
How is Pandemic H1N1 flu treated? Pandemic H1N1 flu is treated the same way that seasonal flu is – with lots of fluids and plenty of rest away from work or school. You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol®), ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), or naproxen (Aleve®) – NOT aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) for fever and body aches. For more serious cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe an antiviral medication. Antiviral medication can make your illness milder, make symptoms last a shorter period of time, and prevent more serious flu complications.
If you get sick, should you get tested for Pandemic H1N1 flu?Your healthcare provider will decide whether flu testing is needed. Most individuals with healthy immune systems do not need to be tested for Pandemic H1N1 because they will likely recover on their own. However, patients who are hospitalized, or people that have special medical conditions that weaken their immune system such as pregnant women, people with diabetes, infants, and people over 60 years of age should get tested to be certain they’ll get the treatment that is best for them.
