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Mason County Health Department
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Influenza F&Q |
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Q: Why should I be concerned about H1N1? A: Every year, 36,000 people die from the flu or conditions caused by the flu such as pneumonia. H1N1 is a new strain and most people do not have any natural immunity to it. For this reason, even if it is in line with the severity of seasonal influenza, more individuals will be infected and in turn, there may be more hospitalizations and/or deaths.
Q: I am not in a priority group. When can I get the vaccine? A: As of December 15th the health department is providing the vaccine to all individuals regardless of age, health or priority groups. State Public Health Director Announces Expansion of H1N1 Flu Vaccine
Q: What is the best way to stop the spread of H1N1 at home, school and work? A: Remember the 3 Cs: Clean your hands, Cover your cough, and sneeze and Contain your germs by staying home when you are sick. For more information visit the CDCs Stopping the Spread of Germs site.
Q: What should I do if my child or I get sick? Should I come to the Health Department to be tested? A: At the first signs of illness, stay home and call your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. If your symptoms are mild, a visit to an Emergency Room where you may be exposed to more ill individuals is not advised. Likewise, do not come to the health department. The health department does not test or diagnose for H1N1.
Q: How effective is Flu mist A: According to one large study, flu mist decreases the chances of coming down with the flu by 92%. Go to the CDC website for more information on flu mist
Q: Is it true that Flu Mist has mercury in it? A: Not at all, Flu Mist is mercury free. In fact, a tuna salad sandwich has more mercury than the shots which do contain some mercury (New York Times 10/9/09)
Q: Can I get the flu from flu mist A: Unlike the flu shot, the nasal spray flu vaccine does contain live viruses. However, the viruses are attenuated (weakened) and cannot cause flu illness. The weakened viruses are cold-adapted, which means they are designed to only cause infection at the cooler temperatures found within the nose. The viruses cannot infect the lungs or other areas where warmer temperatures exist. Q: What do I need to know about the H1N1(Swine Flu) Nasal Spray Vaccine? A: Nasal Spray Vaccine Information from CDC
Q: What do I need to know about the H1N1(Swine Flu) Flu Shot? A: Flu Shot Vaccine Information from CDC
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