Facing the New Flu
The new H1N1 influenza virus—formerly known as ‘swine flu’-- has now spread around the world, and the World Health Organization has declared a pandemic. This new virus acts a lot like seasonal flu, a familiar risk which some people don’t worry about very much. In reality, no one can predict how this public health event will play out, so it is very important to pay attention, to be prepared, and to take action to limit its impact.
Public concern about the new virus peaked and subsided quickly here last spring, but the virus continued to spread, making unwelcome visits to a number of camps over the summer. Experts are predicting that as school starts up we will see more illnesses.
So far, complications and death caused by the new virus have been uncommon. Older adults—who are most vulnerable to complications from seasonal flu—have been largely spared. However, the vast majority of us are susceptible to infection with the new virus, and it spreads very easily. So we should not be surprised to see large numbers of people getting sick.
Outbreaks any flu virus can be disruptive for schools and workplaces.
And if the number of infections soars, complications and deaths that
affect a tiny percent of patients can add up to a very significant
impact. This could be compounded if we have seasonal flu—which can by
itself stress the health care system-- and the new flu strain
circulating at the same time.
This is why we must do what we can to slow the spread of the virus.
So the prescription starts with the familiar reminders of personal responsibility. Take them seriously: cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands frequently. Remind others to do this too. Stay home if you are ill. Parents, schools, churches, and worksites should now anticipate and make plans to support better hygiene and to make it easy for those who are ill to stay home.
Second, get the regular seasonal flu shot when it becomes available.
Third, stay tuned for more information and recommendations about the H1N1 vaccine. This week the CDC’s Advisory Council on Immunization Practices set priorities for use of vaccine when it becomes available.
Finally, remember that the H1N1 virus acts like other flu viruses and is treated like other flu viruses. If you are ill with flu like illness, stay home. If you are ill enough to seek medical attention, call your doctor. Don’t be disappointed if a test is not ordered to tell what type of flu you have.
Your local public health department, along with state and federal counterparts, responded quickly to the appearance of H1N1 in the spring. We have been actively planning and preparing for the next wave. We will do everything we can to communicate what we know when we know it, and to provide the best advice available as the situation evolves.
It is clear, however, that the successful response to the pandemic virus will require everyone to pay attention and take common-sense actions to protect themselves and others.
Visit the Metro Public Health Department’s website (www.health.nashville.gov) for the latest information or call our H1N1 flu information telephone line (615) 340-7775.