Over the past several months, a novel strain of Influenza A H1N1 has sickened thousands and caused a number of fatalites. The symptoms have been typical for regular flu: cough, runny/stuffy nose, fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. People affected may also have nausea, diarrhea along with the respiratory symptoms. While it appears that this illness is decreasing, the virus remains a potential hazard to those with additional health concerns. Vaccines are available by monitoring the Allegheny County Health Department website.
To permit the federal government to release stockpiled resources, this outbreak has been declared a Public Health Emergency; but as far as officials know now, this is still just an influenza outbreak.
Pandemic influenza has occurred numerous times throughout history. The swine flu strain in the United States has produced only minor symptoms and no deaths. The current available treatments have also proven to be effective.
Key Facts
The swine flu is NOT the bird flu, which has affected other parts of the world.
This particular swine flu is sensitive to oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza), common antiviral treatments that are readily available.
Locally, regular seasonal flu activity has been minimal.
The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are following this situation closely and will provide updates.
What You Should Do
During this time, as always, the protection of fellow staff and the public is of the utmost importance.
Always use proper hand hygiene procedures before and after contact with any person. Also use hand hygiene frequently during the day, even if you do not come into contact with other people.
Use proper cough and sneeze etiquette (use your arm!).
When dealing with a person suspected of having influenza, use droplet/contact precautions.
