Gregory E. Keyes, M.D. - A Word From Your Doctor


	A Word From Your Doctor \| H1N1 Influenza


	H1N1 Influenza There has been much talk about H1N1 influenza (swine flu.) This is an illness that seemed to start in Mexico last spring and now is blossoming as a pandemic, which means simply a "world wide spread disease." The illness recently went through one of our State Universities very rapidly. For the most part it has been a relatively mild influenza lasting three to four days. It is now in our community also, and at this early stage in the season we have to presume that flu like illness is in fact H1N1 influenza. Our current recommendations are that if you have a temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit or a cough or a sore throat, or any combination of the above; that it is presumed to be H1N1 flu until proven otherwise. Treatment is primarily directed against giving it to those around you. Please cover your cough with your elbow, wash your hands well, and stay home until you have been without fever for 24 hours. Other symptoms may also include runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting. This strain of influenza seems to be similar to previous influenza many years ago, and therefore seems to be primarily effecting those under age 25. When should I call the doctor? We are delighted to hear from you at any time, of course. If you have typical symptoms of the flu, we will probably ask you to stay home rather than promoting the spread of the flu by coming to the office. If you feel that your symptoms are particularly severe, we would certainly want to hear from you; or if they are not resolving in three to four days. If you have underlying asthma or another debilitating lung condition, then we may consider anti-viral medications. For the most part, the Health Department is recommending them only in the case of patients who are hospitalized or come under consideration for hospitalization. Remember, the anti-viral medications are not miracle drugs and generally shorten the illness by only a day or two. What about swine flu vaccine? The vaccine is currently being grown in tissue culture. You cannot hurry a vaccine. It takes about six months to develop. We have been promised that we would have the vaccine for delivery in October. No one as yet has received supplies to begin vaccination. The initial target group are those who have been hit the hardest. It will be children ages six months to two years and parents of children ages zero to 6 years, pregnant women, and healthcare workers initially; expanding to school-aged children. Because of previous immunity, those over age 65 are not targeted for the initial flu shot. Should I get a regular flu shot? The standard flu shots are still very important and should be given according to the recommendations over the past several years. Standard flu tends to hit us in the Pacific Northwest about late December or early January. Getting a flu shot is a good idea. This year we have had fewer doses available and expect to run out early, but the flu shots can also be obtained through a number of pharmacies. How do I stay well? During this flu epidemic, it is probably wise to avoid close contact with people who are coughing or have fevers. It is wise to wash your hands frequently and train yourself not to rub your nose, eyes, or mouth; because if you get the virus on your hand, that can infect you. Carry hand sanitizer with you and use it frequently. If you do become ill, stay home and treat your symptoms with Tylenol or Advil and over-the-counter cough remedies. If you need advice at any time or have questions or concerns, please feel free to call our office. We have a full staff available to assist you.