H1N1 and you

I spent the better part of the day pondering what my post should be about today. At the last minute I decided to briefly discuss the H1N1 flu strain. This was formerly called the swine flu, but after innocent pigs were slaughtered, the name went technical. This flu is not what we expect to have instead of our seasonal flu strain, but in addition to it.

Scientists have created a vaccine for the seasonal flu, based on some assumption of the 2009/2010 strain. Scientists and pharmaceutical companies are currently TESTING a vaccine for H1N1.

I chose this subject today because I was part of a conversation between my boss and a health department information officer today, and there were local news stories about the school system and H1N1 yesterday and because I read about it in the Wall St Journal while eating dinner. Interestingly, my boss taught me something that the newspaper did not explain. I think that is pretty cool.

So, the biggest difference between the two flu viruses is who they target and who is on the priority list for vaccines. The seasonal flu has always been said to be a threat to the elderly. The H1N1 is a threat to people under 65 and most threatening to pregnant women. My boss taught me that pregnant women, especially in the second trimester, have reduced immune responses. The body turns off or lessons the immune response in order to protect the baby from rejection. Pretty neat, but not when it comes to illness.

Pregnant women and children are the priority group for H1N1 vaccine along with the usual; child care givers and health care professionals, as well as, people between ages 25 and 65 who have chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, COPD).

There is some speculation that those over age 65 have some built in immunity from viruses that occurred in the past.

There may be concern about vaccine safety and the CDC and others are watching closely for signs of problems. The CDC does not expect any problems, but is aware that people are concerned because of the Guillian-Barre Syndrome of 1976 and because of mercury found in a preservative. There are vaccines available that do not contain any mercury. A protocol is in effect for a quick response if any problems surface.

So to avoid getting either flu, take care of yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water if you can, or hand sanitizer. Keep your hands off your face; nose, mouth, eyes. If you have symptoms which are often mild, stay home. You do not need to call the doctor unless you have chest pain, trouble breathing, dizziness and confusion and prolonged vomiting. Try to treat your fever (OTC medicine and water)and avoid antivirals unless you have a severe case of either flu.

It is said that you should remain away from others for 24 hours AFTER your fever breaks. It is also said that you can spread the virus before YOU have symptoms.

So eat right and exercise now to get that immune system primed for flu season and be well!