Thinking About the H1N1 Flu Virus and the Vaccine

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In France, the Health Ministry is suggesting a ban on the customary greeting of “la bise” (kissing on cheeks) because of concern over spreading germs and possibly the H1N1 flu virus, as reported by the Associated Press. There is a lot of scary talk and situational stories going around about the flu pandemic H1N1 (i.e., swine flu), and the vaccine that will be available in mid-October.

I personally have heard reports of families (particularly those with children who just started back to school) being directed to go to the hospital for testing and/or to receive the seasonal flu vaccine if one member of that family is diagnosed with the H1N1 virus. I also have heard that most children’s hospitals around the Nation are discussing requiring employees to get the seasonal flu vaccine and designating contingency plans for accommodating staff absences because of seasonal and H1N1 flu infections. While I’m not sure if that is a usual occurrence, my interest is piqued enough to want more information.

We all have a decision to make, and that is if you will get the vaccine or take your chances. I believe information is power, so I would like to share what I found out.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), activity of the virus increased in the last week of August based on criteria outlined to track yearly influenza spread. Criteria includes: doctor visits for flu-like symptoms, influenza hospitalizations for adults and children, the amount of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza and six states reporting wide-spread influenza, which is unusual for August. Finally, there is reported cases where the virus has been positively identified in addition to its susceptibility to antiviral drugs. It is not unusual for activity to increase as the warmer months go away and we head into the colder part of the year, and flu season along with it. But it is unusual for reported cases of flu to be at the level they are in August and early September.

The CDC website states that the seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against H1N1 infection. The H1N1 vaccine will be administered in two doses similar to how the seasonal flu vaccine is given, and can be given on the same day as receiving the seasonal flu vaccine. The H1N1 spreads in similar manner to the seasonal flu, through casual human contact, so extra care should be taken when experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, or coming in contact with someone who is symptomatic, or has had the virus within the past week.

As Mom always used to tell you, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, immediately throw away used tissues, and wash hands immediately (or use a germ-killing product on hands). Avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes because most germs are spread that way. Regularly disinfect surfaces that could be harboring germs. Most importantly, stay home if you or your children are sick, and remain home until fever-free for 24 hours. It is also highly recommended by the CDC to follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures. It’s enough to turn you into a bleach water-toting germaphobe. I already have wet wipes and an organic alcohol-free antibacterial spray in my purse. Using common sense, however, you and your family should be able to keep the nastiest of viral illnesses from infiltrating your home this season.

Information on recommendations about who is at high-risk for contracting H1N1 and should receive the vaccination (particularly pregnant women, children, and people with chronic illnesses) is available on the CDC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. She started a women's group, The Wo-Hoo! Society, in the interests of friendship, networking, and philanthropy. The group meets separately on a monthly basis in the Phoenix and Kansas City areas. Christine is interested in women's health and promoting strong women.

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Anonymous

dont panic i just heard about miracle flu protection
http://www.themiraclelife.net/79736/Miracle-Flu-protect-1

September 8, 2009 - 11:34am

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.