NEW! Get Vaccinated Today
Flu season is far from over, and everyone is urged to get vaccinated for H1N1 flu. Most Americans have not been vaccinated yet, but the vaccine is widely available. Remember, H1N1 is still circulating, and it is still important to protect you and your family by becoming vaccinated.
Hendricks Regional Health Medical Group offices and Immediate Care Centers currently have H1N1 vaccines available. Request one today, or visit Flu.gov to learn more.
Helpful Information about Seasonal and H1N1 Flu
Influenza is a respiratory disease that can cause fever, headaches, body aches, extreme tiredness, sore throat, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose and some stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Not everyone with influenza will have a fever; it is possible to have the flu and be contagious without having a fever. If you have flu-like symptoms stay home and avoid contact with other people.
Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu can vary in severity from mild to severe. Severe disease with pneumonia, respiratory failure and even death is possible with any flu infection. Certain people are at increased risk to develop severe illness from H1N1, such as pregnant women, young children and persons with chronic medical conditions.
H1N1 influenza is now widespread in our community. Testing specifically for H1N1 is not necessary because, at this time, most flu cases are H1N1. The majority of flu cases are relatively mild and can be treated at home, but if you experience severe symptoms including difficulty breathing, chest pain, signs of dehydration or confusion you need immediate medical attention.
Prescription anti-viral medications are being used for patients who have severe symptoms, are hospitalized with flu-like symptoms and/or are in the following risk groups:
- People with certain chronic conditions or
compromised immune systems, including those with cancer, blood
disorders, chronic lung diseases, diabetes, heart disease, kidney
disorders, liver disorders, AIDS, muscular dystrophy or multiple
sclerosis.
- Children under 19 who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
If you or someone in your household has flu-like symptoms stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clear fluids, rest as much as possible and use over-the counter fever reducers or cold and flu medications as needed. Stay home and avoid contact with other people. Do not go to work or school for at least 24 hours after fever is gone.