Influenza Seasonal and H1N1 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between seasonal influenza and H1N1 influenza?
Seasonal influenza (influenza A & B) virus circulates globally and every year emerges after genetic reassortment resulting in the need for a yearly vaccine. In April 2009, human infections with a novel (new) influenza A (H1N1) were identified and as of June 2009 infections have been reported worldwide. This novel virus is partly derived from influenza A viruses that circulate in swine and is genetically different from human influenza A.

How dangerous is influenza infection?
Influenza is a serious contagious disease. Each year an average of 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 people die from seasonal flu complications in the United States.

Will this flu season be worse with the H1N1 influenza virus?
This flu season could be worse than other years. The H1N1 influenza virus is new and very different. This virus may cause more illness or more severe illness than usual.

How will I know if I have H1N1 influenza?
Currently H1N1 testing is being done by the State and only with severe or hospitalized patients. If you have signs and symptoms of influenza infection you can have an influenza test to see if you are positive for influenza. The precautions and treatment are the same with both types of viruses.

What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.

What can I do to protect myself against the flu?
The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated.

Is there a vaccination for H1N1 virus?
The novel H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available sometime in the fall 2009. Availability depends on manufacturing time and conducting clinical trials. The vaccine will be a separate vaccine with expected recommendation of a booster dose 3 weeks after the first dose.

Will the seasonal flu vaccine also protect against H1N1 flu?
The seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against the novel H1N1 flu.

If I get the H1N1 vaccine will I still need to get a seasonal influenza vaccination?
Yes, remember seasonal flu can also lead to hospitalization and death.

What are some other preventive actions I can take to prevent getting the flu?

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol sanitizer often.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home. Healthcare workers should not have patient contact until 7 days after onset of symptoms.

For additional information go to www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/