1. What are the symptoms of H1N1 influenza?
- Fever (99 - 104 degrees F)
- Body and/or joint aches
- Cough
- Headache
- Eye pain
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
2. How long do symptoms last and how long is it contagious?
Symptoms may last from 3 - 10 days. The incubation period is 1-4 days. A person is contagious anywhere from 1 day prior to onset of symptoms up to 7 days after symptoms began.
3. What treatment is used for H1N1 influenza?
If you are otherwise healthy with no underlying medical conditions, treatment is not needed for mild to moderate cases. Treatment is needed for pregnant women, children <5 years of age, and people with weakened immune systems.
4. Which groups are targeted to receive the H1N1 influenza vaccine?
The CDC recommends the following groups receive the H1N1 influenza vaccine:
- Children 6 months to 24 years old
- Pregnant women
- Healthcare workers
- People 25-64 years old who are at increased risk of getting the flu and for those who provide care to infants
<6 months old
5. What can I do to help prevent getting the flu?
- Wash hands frequently
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
- Avoid close contact with others who are sick
- Stay home until symptoms have been gone for at least 24 hours
- Keep isolated from other household members
- Cover your mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing