Flu season 2009-2010: Something old, something new
This upcoming fall and winter will be a little different.
Every year, somewhere between five and 20% of Americans become ill with seasonal flu. In addition to seasonal flu,
health experts expect that H1N1 influenza (swine flu) will circulate widely this fall and winter.
Since H1N1 influenza appeared this spring, health officials have been closely monitoring the disease and planning for
the expected second wave of H1N1 influenza this fall. The severity of H1N1 illness is expected to be similar to the seasonal
flu, and health experts believe large numbers of people may become infected and seek medical care.
Pregnant women, children and individuals with some underlying health conditions appear to be at higher risk for severe illness.
Drug manufacturers are producing an H1N1 vaccine that would protect against H1N1 influenza. While federal officials think
there will be enough H1N1 vaccine for everyone who wants it, they recommend people at highest risk and in the following groups are prioritized when vaccine becomes available:
- Pregnant women
- Children and young adults 6 months to 24 years of age
- Persons 25-64 years old who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from flu (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma)
- Household members and caregivers of children younger than 6 months in age
- Healthcare workers and emergency medical service providers
While H1N1 flu and regular seasonal flu can be very serious, individuals, families, and organizations can take steps to
prevent illness and prepare for this upcoming flu season. People in high-risk groups should make every effort to get the
H1N1 vaccine. The H1N1 influenza vaccine does not protect against seasonal flu; Public Health recommends that seniors and
others at risk for seasonal flu also get the seasonal flu vaccine.
Organizations and businesses should review protocols for asking sick staff to stay at home, and develop ways to support
staff that are ill, caring for ill family members, or recovering from the flu. Families with school-aged children should
start talking to other families and neighbors about alternative child care plans if children are sick with flu or if schools or day cares are closed.
For more information and future updates about H1N1 influenza (swine flu), visit Public Health - Seattle & King County at
www.kingcounty.gov/health/h1n1.
Public Health has activated an Information Call Center, 1-877-903-5464 for people to call with questions from 9-5 on Monday
through Friday. Translators are being made available.
Related Links:
-
Public Health - Seattle & King County:
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) FAQ in Multiple Languages -
Public Health - Seattle & King County:
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Information -
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention:
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Fact Sheet
