Metro Health encourages residents to get both flu shots

The novel H1N1 Influenza A virus that emerged in the spring is still causing illness in our community. The Metro Health Department encourages residents to get both the seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccinations.

The novel H1N1 virus is easily spread, especially among those five to 24 years old. That means the virus is spreading extensively in schools, creating illness that will eventually lead home and to work. Follow these simple tips to protect you and your family:

1) Get the seasonal flu vaccination, which targets the other flu strains (not novel H1N1) expected to be circulating during the normal months of October to March, and possibly through May.

2) Get the novel H1N1 vaccination as soon as it becomes available, which should be mid-October to early November. Children 10 or older and adults will only require one dose while children between the ages of six months to nine years will require two doses. Neither the seasonal or H1N1 vaccine is recommended for children younger than six months.

It's anticipated that there will be enough vaccine for anyone who desires it; however, the priority group to be vaccinated first includes: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than six months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons between the ages of six months and 24 years old, and people ages 25 through 64 years of age who are at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

3) Consistently practice preventive measures, which include:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• Stay home if you are sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommend that individuals stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone [without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, like acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Advil, Motrin)]. A fever is defined as 100 Fahrenheit.
  
  For more information about novel H1N1 flu, visit www.sanantonio.gov/health/H1N1.html  or call Metro Health's flu hotline at 207-5779.

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