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What should I know about the
seasonal and H1N1 vaccines?
The flu is a serious contagious disease, and we recommend a
yearly seasonal flu vaccine as the first
and most important step in protecting against seasonal flu.
A seasonal vaccine, however, will not protect you against the H1N1 Flu. The
H1N1 vaccine is highly recommended and is available at Hutchinson Medical
Center.
How can I protect myself and my family?
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or
sneeze into your sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use
it.
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Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you
cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based gel hand cleaners are also good to use.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs can spread this way.
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Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (If you have been
around someone who has the flu, notify
your doctor to see if you need to be treated for the flu).
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Have a plan to care for sick family members.
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Notify your doctor with any concerns about H1N1 as it could lead to serious
problems such as pneumonia.
What are flu-like symptoms?
Flu-like symptoms come suddenly, and can include: fever, cough, sore
throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue, and sometimes
diarrhea and vomiting.
What should I do if I get sick?
If sick with flu-like symptoms, it is important to stay home and
limit contact with others to avoid spread of infection. Call
your primary care physician, and he or she will decide if you need
to be treated.
When should I get emergency medical care?
Please seek emergency care if you exhibit any of the
following symptoms: difficulty breathing or shortness of
breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden
dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, and/or
a high fever that is not responding to Tylenol.
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