H1N1

H1N1-Swine Flu Information

We will be updating this portion of our website as new information is received from the National Center for Disease Control and from our Illinois Department of Public Health. We have also included links below under Additional Information to the Pike County Health Department which has additional information about the seasonal and H1N1 flu.

Department of Publich Health Letter to Parents

Flu Symptom Checklist

Center for Disease Control Recommendations

The Pike County Health Department (PCHD) would like to assure that reliable, accurate information regarding H1N1 influenza, the local situation and the local response, is available to all Pike County residents. We rely on local media sources and many community partners, including Pike County school systems, to assist us in disseminating accurate public messages.

Currently, all reliable sources indicate that the H1N1 influenza virus has been circulating nationally, regionally and locally and is expected to do so throughout this flu season. The following factual information can help reduce the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus and protect our population.

FACTS:

Most people who get the flu (either seasonal or 2009 H1N1) will have mild illness, will not need medical care or antiviral drugs, and will recover in less than two weeks. Some people, however, are more likely to get flu complications that result in hospitalization.

The most effective means of preventing the spread of H1N1 influenza are to:

1) Practice good hygiene, such as, covering coughs, washing hands frequently and staying home when sick.

2) When available, receive the H1N1 flu vaccine.

FACTS RE: H1N1 FLU VIRUS

The symptoms of influenza, including H1N1 influenza, can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and less frequently nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
The time during which a person might be infectious to another person begins the day before illness onset and can persist for 5 to 7 days. The most infectious period is when the person is running a fever (generally, 100 degrees F or higher).
2009 H1N1 influenza virus appears to be transmitted from person to person in the same way as seasonal flu. The main way that influenza is thought to spread is through the coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may also become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for 2 to 8 hours after being deposited on the surface.
Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time.

FACTS RE: VACCINE

Nationwide, 2009 H1N1 vaccination has begun, but initial supplies are limited. More doses are expected for shipment each week. Members of the public who want to receive this vaccine are asked to be patient as this program expands and more vaccine becomes available. There will be enough vaccine available for anyone who wishes to receive it. Certain people are at higher risk of complications due to the new H1N1 flu, so these people will be allowed to receive the new H1N1 vaccine first.
The H1N1 vaccine is produced in the same way seasonal flu vaccine is produced. The vaccine is safe.
The H1N1 vaccine will be available in two forms: Flu Mist (nasal spray) and Injectable.
Vaccine eligibility requirements vary according to the product (flu mist or injectable), the age of the client, the health condition of the client and the CDC recommended priority groups.
There will be no charge for H1N1 vaccine through PCHD.
Currently PCHD only has the H1N1 Flu Mist. The H1N1 injectable vaccine is expected in later shipments.

Other reliable sources for the most current information regarding H1N1 influenza:

PCHD web site: www.pikecoilhealth.org to check recent local press releases
PCHD at 285-4407 to listen to option “9” for current vaccination clinic information
Your school’s web site may have information
http://www.ready.illinois.gov/
The following CDC web sites:
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/schools
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/schools/schoolguidance.htm
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm
Pike County newspapers and WBBA radio, 97.5 FM announce current flu clinic information.