Responding to H1N1 Flu Virus.

September 24, 2009

With the upcoming flu season, please take the necessary precautions for preventing the H1N1 flu virus. There are a few simple steps to ensure that you and those around you remain healthy.

1. Get the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines. Everyone is encouraged to get the vaccines when they are made available in October. Those in the target groups are more susceptible to H1N1 and should definitely plan to be vaccinated. The target groups include:

• Children 6 months to 24 years of age

• Pregnant women

• Those living with babies less than 6 months of age

• Healthcare workers

• Adults age 25 to 64 with chronic health complications
  
  

2. Stay home when you are sick.

3. Wash your hands and cover your mouth when you sneeze and cough.

If you develop flu-like symptoms, it is not necessary to go to the doctor immediately unless you are elderly or if you have chronic medical complications. Most people will recover after a few days staying home, resting, and drinking fluids. The symptoms for the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu include:

• High fever

• Cough

• Headache

• Body ache

• Sore throat

For more information about how to prevent H1N1 and the release of H1N1 vaccines, visit www.flu.gov.

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