Pandemic H1N1 flu is a respiratory infection caused by a new flu virus responsible for large outbreaks in

many parts of the world. It has led to many hospitalizations and some deaths in certain parts of the U.S.

population.

No. The virus that causes Pandemic H1N1 flu is a new type of flu virus that is different from the virus that

causes the seasonal flu. Both types of the flu can be serious. The good news is that getting a vaccine and

practicing simple prevention steps such as washing your hands often can prevent them both.

The main way that influenza viruses spread is through droplets from a sick person when they cough or

sneeze. Flu viruses can also live on surfaces such as tables, faucets or doorknobs for up to eight hours. You

can become infected with Pandemic H1N1 flu by touching an infected surface, then touching your eyes,

nose, or mouth.

Most people will recover from the Pandemic H1N1 flu without treatment. However, just like the seasonal

flu, Pandemic H1N1 flu can lead to serious health problems. Pregnant women; adults younger than 25 years

of age; young children; and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease,

and kidney disease, are more likely to have complications from the flu.

Many of the symptoms of Pandemic H1N1 flu are the same as the symptoms of the seasonal flu. These

include fever, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and tiredness. The Pandemic H1N1

flu may also cause diarrhea and vomiting and can lead to serious complications for some people.

Pandemic H1N1 flu is treated the same way that seasonal flu is – with lots of fluids and plenty of rest away

from work or school. You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol®), ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), or naproxen

(Aleve®) – NOT aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) for fever and body aches. For more serious cases, a

healthcare provider may prescribe an antiviral medication. Antiviral medication can make your illness

milder, make symptoms last a shorter period of time, and prevent more serious flu complications.

Your healthcare provider will decide whether flu testing is needed. Most individuals with healthy immune

systems do not need to be tested for Pandemic H1N1 because they will likely recover on their own.

However, patients who are hospitalized, or people that have special medical conditions that weaken their

immune system such as pregnant women, people with diabetes, infants, and people over 60 years of age

should get tested to be certain they’ll get the treatment that is best for them.

Pandemic H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

The vaccine for Pandemic H1N1 flu is different from the seasonal flu vaccine that is recommended each

year. Just like seasonal flu vaccines, Pandemic H1N1 vaccines are expected to be safe, effective and the best

way to prevent the flu.

The Pandemic H1N1 vaccine will be first available to:

diabetes, or weakened immune systems

If the Pandemic H1N1 vaccine is recommended for you, check with your healthcare provider to schedule an

appointment. Don’t forget to ask your provider if you should also receive a seasonal flu vaccine and

pneumococcal vaccine, which can prevent common flu complications. If you don’t have a healthcare

provider, you may be able to receive low-cost or no-cost immunizations. Please visit

You aren’t required to get Pandemic H1N1 flu vaccines, but getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent

this flu.

The groups recommended for vaccination are picked because they are more likely to get this flu, spread this

flu, or suffer from more serious health problems if they are infected. Unlike seasonal flu, Pandemic H1N1

flu has caused fewer complications for older adults. This may be because older adults were exposed to the

viruses in past years and have some immunity (ability to recognize and fight off the virus). Therefore, with

limited vaccine available, efforts will focus on those most likely to have serious health problems.

Following some simple, everyday tips can help protect you and your family from the flu.

fever ends.

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