Pan Flu H1N1 in Schools
As the school year begins, we again want to emphasize the importance of following CDC guidance on preventing the spread of the Pandemic Flu H1N1. While symptoms of Pan Flu H1N1 and seasonal influenza are similar, populations hit hardest by severe illness are different. Those at highest risk from seasonal flu infection are the elderly (over 65 years of age) and the very young (under 59 months). With Pan Flu H1N1, the population that seems to be at greatest risk for hospitalization and death are pregnant women, children and young adults (6 months to 24 years of age). Persons with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk from both kinds of flu.
Prevention is still the best defense. Steps to protect yourself and other people from Pandemic Flu H1N1 include:
- Plan to get a regular seasonal influenza vaccination as early as September.
- Stay informed about the Pandemic Flu H1N1 vaccine and the risk groups that should be vaccinated.
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or the corner of the elbow for coughs or sneezes. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
- Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughs or sneezes. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Stay home when sick and keep sick children home from school.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Avoid social gatherings when ill or if medical conditions increase the risk for flu complications.
If you are sick or have questions about Pandemic Flu H1N1, you should contact your healthcare provider. Additional information may be found on the website for the Fresno County Department of Public Health at http://www.fcdph.org.
Fresno County Update (November 3, 2009)
Pandemic Flu H1N1 is widespread throughout the County of Fresno. The severity of the virus remains mild to moderate and most people recover without incident. Medical attention is recommended if illness becomes severe.
Doses of Injectable, Pediatric Injectable and Intranasal H1N1 Vaccine have arrived in Fresno County. The Fresno County Department of Public Health's Pandemic Flu H1N1 supply will be available at the Department's Flu Vaccination Clinics scheduled at various urban and rural locations throughout the county. Dates, times, and locations for these clinics are available by visiting www.fcdph.org/flu or by calling the toll free Influenza Information Line at 1-888-993-3003.
Due to limited doses received, these vaccines will be available to the following priority groups:
- Children 6 months through 36 months of age
- Persons 3 years through 24 years of age
- Pregnant women
- Persons 25 years to 64 years of age with chronic medical conditions
- Caregivers of infants younger than 6 months of age
