H1N1 VIRUS SWINE FLU

What is the H1N1 Virus? It is a new virus that is spread from person to person first detected in people in the United States in April of 2009 The H1N1 Virus or Swine flu was first thought to be very similar to viruses found in swine only. But further study has shown that it is actually a combination of flu viruses found in swine, birds and humans. H1N1 virus causes Flu like symptoms that are usually not life threatening

How is the H1N1 Virus Spread? It is mainly spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with the H1N1 virus. It may also be spread by touching an object or surface with the Virus on it and then touching your mouth or nose.

What are the Signs and Symptoms? Fever Cough Sore Throat Runny or Stuffy Nose Body Aches Headache Chills and Fatigue A significant number of people who have been infected with the virus have also reported diarrhea and vomiting

How Severe is the Illness? Similar to that of the seasonal flu Ranges from mild to severe Most recover without the need for medical attention Hospitalizations and Deaths have occurred

Who is at High Risk? Children younger than 5 years of age. People the the following medical conditions: Pregnant Women Diabetes Heart Disease Asthma Kidney Disease It does not appear that people older than 64 are at an increased risk at this time. People that are at high risk should consult with their health care provider.

How Long is an Infected Person Contagious? People infected with the H1N1 virus may be able to infect others from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after. The contagious period can be longer in: Children People with a weakened immune system

What Should I Do If I Am Sick? CDC recommends if you are sick to stay home from work and other activities until 24 hours after the fever has gone away. Except to get medical attention. Keep away from others as much as possible. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands often and every time you cough or sneeze.

What Should I Do If I Have A Family Member Who Is Sick? People who are well but have a family member who is sick can go to work as usual. Monitor your health every day. Wash hands with soap and water every time you cough or sneeze. Alcohol based hand sanitizer works as well. If you become ill you should notify your supervisor and stay home from work.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention? In ChildrenIn Adults Fast breathing or trouble breathing Bluish or gray skin color Not drinking enough fluids Severe or persistent vomiting Not waking or interacting Severe irritability Flu-like symptoms leave and then return with fever and worse cough Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen Sudden dizziness Confusion Severe or persistent vomiting Flu-like symptoms leave and then return with fever and worse cough

Are Their Treatments For The H1N1 Virus? Vaccine available late October to first of November H1N1 peek is in October Those at high risk will receive vaccine first Available through Salt Lake Valley Health or other clinics Contact your healthcare provider Antiviral drugs: Oseltamivir Zanamivir Priority for use of antiviral drugs include: Severe Cases High Risk Patients

How Can We Prevent The Spread Of H1N1? Prevention Is The Key!!!!!!! Wash hands on a regular basis. Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Try to avoid close contact with people. (6 feet) If you are sick with H1N1 symptoms, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or other activities for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

Contamination And Cleaning Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on surfaces and can infect a person for 2 to 8 hours after being deposited on the surface. Clean surfaces such as desks, door handles, phones, etc.

What Kills The H1N1 Virus Heat ( degrees F) Chlorine Hydrogen Peroxide Detergents (soap) Iodine based antiseptics Alcohols

Safety Equipment Alcohol based hand cleaners Sanitizing wipes N95 Face Masks or other NIOSH certified mask Generally not recommended in the home and community, unless you are in a high risk group and are in a crowded setting. Recommended if the person has confirmed H1N1 infection and is in the household sharing common spaces with other household members.

Who Should I Contact If I Have Questions? Salt Lake Valley Health Department – Dial 211 You can also look at their website You can find further information about the H1N1 virus on the CDC website at Unified Fire Authority

Questions?