Are you eligible for the H1N1 vaccine?

So, you’ve got a headache, sore throat and feel quite fatigued. Is this a sign of H1N1 infection? Read the following information to determine your next course of action.

The H1N1 flu virus is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. The virus spreads from person-to-person in much the same way that seasonal influenza viruses spread.

Symptoms of H1N1 infection include:

• Fever (typically more than 100 degrees)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. Other people may be infected with H1N1 and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

Typically, H1N1 symptoms cause two to three days of fever with one or more of the aforementioned symptoms. Most people recover without ever needing medical treatment. However, some people are more likely to experience complications from H1N1 and should talk to a health care provider about whether they need to be examined if they get flu symptoms this season. They are:

• Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
• People 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• People who have: Cancer; blood disorders (including sickle cell disease); chronic lung disease; diabetes; heart disease; kidney or liver disorders; neurological disorders; neuromuscular disorders; weakened immune systems
• People who have been sick, seem to be getting better after a few days, and then have a relapse with return of fever and other symptoms

Please be aware that progressive worsening of symptoms – fever lasting more than three days or symptoms that get better but return – may be indicative of a more serious health situation. In such instances, please see your doctor immediately.