What You Should Know About H1N1 Influenza A

H1N1, an influenza virus sometimes known as the swine flu, was first detected in the United States in April 2009. In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared that a global pandemic of H1N1 was under way, after more than 70 countries reported cases of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the virus spreads from person to person in much the same way as the seasonal flu—through droplets from coughing or sneezing by someone who is infected. Most people who become ill with H1N1 have recovered without requiring medical treatment, although some people have been hospitalized and some have died.

Children and young adults bore the brunt of the pandemic. Schools were disrupted and some children became seriously ill, along with the most vulnerable staff: pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.

Efforts that would force healthcare workers to get seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccinations had the AFT concerned. In New York state, for example, healthcare workers were told they had to get seasonal and H1N1 vaccinations or face losing their jobs. Ultimately, that mandate was rescinded.

The union supports influenza immunizations but opposes mandatory programs. Any vaccination effort should include education on the benefits and risks involved, and the decision on vaccination should remain an individual choice.

Experts agree that we must remain vigilant, even while the pandemic has waned. The possibility remains that there may be a another wave of H1N1, and other seasonal flu varieties are circulating as well.

Symptoms of H1N1 resemble the seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you are sick, the CDC advises you to stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical attention.

Keep informed by visiting this site. New information is being posted as it becomes available.

How To Think Like a Scientist: H1N1 Video

"How To Think Like a Scientist: H1N1" takes the mystery out of public health advisories and recommendations.

Developed by public health literacy experts and tailored for the science and health literacy of the general public, the video takes the mystery out of swine flu recommendations, by presenting reliable, credible information that is easy to understand, and act on.

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