Professional Home Care Associates

H1N1 Vaccine Update

The first batch of H1N1 vaccine has arrived. 　The vaccine that is available is a nasal mist and is only for healthy individuals age 2 – 49. Due to the limited amount, the available doses are primarily being reserved for children. Parents should call their pediatrician or family practitioner for availability. Additional practices and hospitals will be receiving flu mist throughout the month of October as more of it is released.

It is anticipated that the H1N1 vaccine in shot form will be available at the end of October. These shots will also be limited to high risk individuals. The H1N1 vaccine may be available for the general public in December.

To find out more information about H1N1 vaccine availability, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) web site at http://www.cdc.gov/ or the Alameda County Department of Public Health’s web site at http://www.acphd.org/.

Is theH1N1 virus contagious?
The CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

How to Protect Yourself
Cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) have been confirmed throughout the United States, making many people wonder what they can do to protect themselves and their families.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the disease's threat lies in its contagious nature. Swine flu is thought to spread in a manner similar to that of the common flu, through human contact such as coughing or sneezing. The disease also spreads through contact on surfaces, most commonly cafeteria tables, doorknobs or desks. One with swine flu is contagious one day prior to becoming sick and up to seven or more days after.

How to Protect Yourself and Prevent Others From Getting the Flu
To keep yourself healthy and free of swine flu, wash your hands continuously and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth frequently. Hands may be washed with soap and hot water or with hand gels containing alcohol to kill viruses and germs. You should avoid close contact with people who are sick and maintain a healthy lifestyle filled with sufficient sleep, physical activity and a well-balanced diet.

Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2009

For more information about the flu (including the swine flu), visit these web sites:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) www.cdc.gov/swineflu
California Department of Public Health www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Pages/SwineInfluenza.aspx
Alameda County Department of Public Health www.acphd.org/