Information obtained from Pandemic H1N1 Update, Volume 1 Issue 1 County of Los Angeles Public Health

Flu is a serious illness. Pandemic H1N1 (formerly called swine flu) is no exception. Since April 2009, Pandemic H1N1 has spread easily from person to person and disproportionately affected younger age groups. A number of people, many with underlying conditions, have even died from this virus.

No matter the type of virus, preventing the flu requires little effort. Follow these tips to keep healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Gel sanitizers (such as Purell®) are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth since germs spread that way.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you’re sick, stay home and rest for at least 24 hours after fever ends.

The best way to prevent getting the flu is by a getting a flu shot. However, one vaccine won’t prevent getting both flu types because they’re caused by different germs. The Seasonal Flu Vaccine is recommended for anyone that wants to reduce their risk for seasonal flu.

The H1N1 Vaccine is recommended for:

• Pregnant women
• Children and young adults from 6 months to 24 years
• People caring for infants under 6 months of age
• People aged 25-64 with a chronic medical condition
• Health care workers
• Emergency medical providers

Vaccine distribution will be through doctors’ offices, some pharmacies and workplaces, other private organizations, and through some public organizations, such as the Department of Public Health. For the latest vaccine information visit these Websites: www.publichealth.lacounty.gov or www.findaflushot.com.