H1N1 Flu prevention

The California Department of Public Health, Immunization Branch created this website: http://www.calpanflu.org

Here's what you can do to prevent getting the H1N1 Virus:

Symptoms: The symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 influenza. If you are sick or think you have H1N1 influenza infection, please contact your healthcare provider.

Prevention: In addition to getting vaccinated for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus when vaccine is available, all Californians should practice the following prevention steps:

Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue in the trash after use.

Stay home when you are sick and remain at home until at least 24 hours after you are free of fever.

Right now the priority is getting the vaccine to children from age 6 months to 24 years of age and people in contact with infants under 6 months of age. This flu hits children harder than the typical seasonal flu. Children will require two doses. After the first vaccine is given, it needs ten days to develop the immunity. The next vaccine happens 21-28 days after the first one. It's important to get children in now for the first shot since it takes so long.