H1N1 Flu Information

 
  • April 1 - No Clinics currently scheduled

Flu is an illness of the body’s respiratory system.  H1N1 flu is caused by a new virus that was first recognized in April of 2009.  H1N1 flu quickly spread to many parts of the world and is now a “pandemic”, or global outbreak.  The new H1N1 causes symptoms very similar to seasonal flu, is spread like seasonal flu, and can be prevented like seasonal flu.

One of our best defenses against seasonal flu and H1N1 flu is the use of a flu vaccine.  The Easton Board of Health has been receiving H1N1vaccine and has been working to provide vaccine to the residents of Easton at scheduled clinics. 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has recommended that all children age 9 and under receive 2 doses of the vaccine.  The second dose should be given at least 1 month after the initial dose.

Please see the above links for more information on the H1N1 flu.

KEEP VACCINATING AGAINST SEASONAL AND H1N1 INFLUENZA!


CDC recommends continuing vaccination with seasonal influenza vaccine and 2009 H1N1 vaccine for the following reasons:

  • The timing, spread and severity influenza viruses is uncertain. Flu outbreaks may occur in different places at different times.

  • Outbreaks may occur in waves of 6-week to 8-week time periods.  These waves of influenza may occur over several months or years. Different people may be affected during each wave.
  • In past pandemics, “waves” of activity have been observed.  The first wave is usually a smaller wave; followed by a larger “peak” wave.  Subsequent smaller waves can occur as well.
  • The United States experienced its first wave of 2009 H1N1 pandemic activity in the spring of 2009.  A second wave of 2009 H1N1 activity followed in the fall (with activity peak in October).
  • Flu season can last as late as May. It’s possible that other waves of influenza activity may occur this flu season – caused by either 2009 H1N1 viruses or regular seasonal flu viruses.