It’s Flu Season. CHW is Prepared. Are You?
At Catholic Healthcare West, the health and safety of our patients and staff are our highest priorities. For many decades, we have been preparing for and responding to our community’s healthcare needs, from disease prevention to influenza outbreaks. CHW hospitals and clinics throughout California, Arizona and Nevada are prepared for the 2009-2010 flu season including the ongoing H1N1 pandemic. Our patients, their families, visitors and staff can come to our facilities with confidence.
What is the H1N1 flu virus?
Officials report the influenza A H1N1 virus is a new type of flu virus that causes respiratory disease that can spread between people. While most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment, there have been hospitalizations or deaths from people infected with the H1N1 influenza virus.
The spread of the H1N1 flu happens the same way that seasonal flu does. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something, such as a surface or object that has flu viruses on it and then by touching their mouth or nose.
Who is at risk for H1N1 flu virus?
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the following groups are considered at high risk for the H1N1 flu virus:
- Pregnant women
- Household and caregiver contacts of children younger than 6 months of age (e.g. parents, siblings, and child care providers)
- Health care and emergency medical services personnel
- Persons from 6 months to 24 years of age
- People aged 25 to 64 years with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of flu complications (e.g. asthma, diabetes)
What are the symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus?
Medical experts report that symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu. They include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting. If you think you have the flu, please contact your health care provider.
What can I do?
CHW encourages you to do as much as you can to protect yourself from the flu. In addition to getting vaccinated for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus (when when vaccine is available), you can take the following fundamental preventive actions:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you are sick with flu-like illness, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to prevent the spread of the flu.
- Follow public health advice regarding school closures and avoid crowds. Be as vigilant as possible in your interactions with people during this flu season.
Where can I learn more?
For information about vaccine or if you have flu symptoms, contact your health care provider. For the most current information on the H1N1 flu virus, visit www.flu.gov or call the Centers for Disease Control at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
