September 3, 2009

Health Department Issues H1N1 Guidelines

News release

GREENVILLE, OH- The Darke County General Health District is making preparations for this fall’s resurgence of 2009 H1N1 flu. The Health District is following key steps suggested by CDC to minimize the disease’s impact on the nation.

Dr. Holman, DVM, RS, Health Commissioner stated, “The CDC’s targeted groups for the H1N1 vaccination are different than those that are traditionally targeted to receive the seasonal flu vaccination. This is based upon studies that show that the young are more likely to be at risk for illness by the H1N1 virus than the elderly.”

The H1N1 virus is being closely monitored globally. A study during April 24-July25 in Chicago, Illinois found a total of 1,557 laboratory-confirmed cases of H1N1influenza. The overall attack rate was highest among children aged 5-14 years (147 per 100,000 population), which was 14 times higher than for adults aged > 60 years.

Vaccines to prevent 2009 H1N1 are expected to be licensed and ready by mid-October. The national vaccine program will be voluntary. The five initial (first) groups with highest potential of risk of complications from the disease are:

1. Pregnant women

2. Persons who live with or provide care for infants aged <6 months ( parents,siblings,day-care providers).

3. Health-care and emergency medical services personnel who have direct patient contact with patients or infectious material.

4. Children and young adults aged 6 months to 4 years.

5. Children and adolescents aged 5 to 18 years who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications.

The initial vaccine shipment is intended for the 5 target groups listed above. For most people, two doses of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine may by necessary for full protection. The doses will be given approximately 4 weeks apart. As more vaccine is released to local health departments and private providers, the target groups will be expanded. Influenza is very difficult to predict so the Health District is preparing for multiple scenarios.

The usual seasonal influenza viruses are still expected to cause illness this fall and winter. Individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect individuals against the H1N1 virus.

Flu-like symptoms include: fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, sore throat, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea.

It is important individuals practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing; cover coughs and sneezes with tissues and dispose of immediately.

The Darke County Health Department will be holding regular H1N1 vaccination clinics when the vaccine is available. Times and location to be announced.

Recommended resources: