Flu Season 2009

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Apr 29, 2009 at 8:11 AM CST

Story Updated: Sep 23, 2010 at 9:36 AM CST

 
Seasonal Influenza & H1N1 (Novel Influenza A)
Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 people die from seasonal flu complications. This flu season could be worse because there is a new and very different influenza virus causing illness called 2009 H1N1. CDC expects both 2009 H1N1 flu and seasonal flu to cause illness, hospital stays and deaths. (CDC)
 
 
Why is there so much concern about Novel H1N1 Flu?
Because this is a new virus, no one has immunity. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 can cause severe illness and even death; however, different groups of people may be at a higher risk of getting ill. (IDPH H1N1 Fact Sheet)
 

WHERE CAN I GET VACCINATED?
There is a vaccine for both H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza. The Seasonal Influenza vaccine will not protect you from H1N1, and vice versa. Vaccines will be available in a combination of settings such as vaccination clinics organized by local health departments (find your county health department), healthcare provider offices, schools, and other private settings, such as pharmacies and workplaces.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Seasonal and H1N1 Influenza: fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, stomach symptoms, such as nauseas, vomiting, and diarrhea also can occur, but are more commin in children than adults.
 
GOT MORE FLU QUESTIONS? 
Contact the toll-free Iowa Department of Public Health Influenza Hotline at 1-800-447-1985.

Iowa Department of Public Health | Flu.gov | Center for Disease Control and Prevention | World Health Org
 

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