About Influenza A, H1N1
From the Nurse's Office
by Jodi Klien, RN
October 01, 2009
What is novel influenza A H1N1 (novel flu)?
The novel flu virus is a unique combination of swine and human flu
viruses. This virus is transmitted from person to person, not from
pigs to humans. None of the current cases had exposure to
swine.
What are the symptoms of novel
flu?
The symptoms of novel flu are similar to the symptoms of
regular seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny
nose, nasal congestion, body aches, headache, chills and
fatigue.
How does novel flu spread?
The current novel influenza virus spreads the same way as
seasonal flu. Flu viruses are spread by an ill person, coughing or
sneezing. Sometimes people can become infected by touching
something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or
nose.
How can I protect myself and my loved ones against novel flu?
* Avoid contact with ill persons.
* When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue
or into your elbow.
* Good hand washing with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand
gel.
* If you are ill, stay away from other people by staying home. Do
not go to work, school, or travel while ill. People infected with
seasonal flu and H1N1 flu may be able to infect others from 1 day
before getting sick to 5-7 days after.
How long can viruses live outside the body on a surface like a
doorknob?
Some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces
like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent hand washing
or using an alcohol based gel will help you reduce the chances of
becoming ill after touching these surfaces.
Are there medicines I can take if I get sick with novel flu?
Yes. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness
milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent
serious flu complications. They are usually used only for those at
high risk of becoming seriously ill. For treatment, antiviral drugs
work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of when
your symptoms start).
If you/your child are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC and the
school recommend that you stay home for at least 24 hours after
your fever is gone. Your fever should be gone without the use of
fever-reducing medicine.
If your child is diagnosed with the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) please
contact the school.
Also remember our school policy of a fever of 99.9 degrees
Fahrenheit to keep children home. If child has a fever they are
supposed to stay out for another 24 hours AFTER fever is gone.
Remember people with novel flu are potentially contagious as long
as they have symptoms and possibly for up to 7 days after they
become ill. Children, especially younger children, might be
contagious for longer than 7 days.
Public Health Departments
Harrison County (712) 644-2220
Shelby County (712) 755-4308
Crawford County (712) 263-3303
Monona County (712) 433-1773
