Flu Season Information
The dreaded flu season is upon us, and this year with the declaration of a global pandemic related to the H1N1 virus, it is more important than ever to take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your families healthy.
H1N1 was first identified in the United States in April of 2009, and by June the World Health Organization had classified this virus as creating a global pandemic. The virus spreads easily among people and serious complications, even death, have been associated with the virus.
The symptoms of H1N1 include fever of 100 degrees F or higher, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A few patients infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. The H1N1 virus spreads the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses travel mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza.
People especially at risk for seasonal flu include pregnant women, infants and children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. People in those categories should get the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible. Studies indicate that older adults are not more at risk for the H1N1 virus than the general population, so be aware that pregnant women, children, and health care workers will be given first priority for the H1N1 vaccine.
Since the vaccine may not be readily available to everyone, it is important to take standard precautions against the spread of this virus. This includes: Washing hands often. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue if you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid close contact with people who are ill. If you are ill, STAY HOME and avoid contact with others.
Persons with the H1N1 virus may be contagious from one day before they develop symptoms until 24 hours after they recover. Children, especially younger children, and people with weakened immune systems, might be contagious for longer periods. In general, individuals with H1N1 flu should stay home and not go into the community except to seek medical care until a full day after their symptoms have disappeared. Persons who are sick should stay home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever without the use of medication.
St. Andrew’s Senior Solution will be able to administer flu shots in client’s homes. We also offer a full range of supportive services in the St. Louis area, for those who may be sick or need additional assistance during this time. For prices and information you can call 314-726-5766. If you would like information about other providers in your area, please contact your Caregiver Specialist at 314-802-5106, toll free at 1-888-388-1930 or [email protected]
This information was provided by the Center for Disease Control. For additional information about the H1N1 virus you can visit their website at www.flu.gov.
The compassionate staff at St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions serves and supports older adults and their families by providing respite care, care management, and nursing services. For more information please contact your Caregiver Specialist at 314-802-5106, toll free 1-888-388-1930 or [email protected].