Pandemic (H1N1) 2009

ARHS Public Health Preparedness & Response

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009

Pandemic H1N1 2009 or Novel H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of novel H1N1 flu was underway. A pandemic does not mean the virus is severe - it means that there is widespread activity. Pandemics do vary in severity - and so far the H1N1 Pandemic is a MILD TO MODERATE PANDEMIC.

The 2009 H1N1 flu is widespread in the US and in NC. Testing for the virus is not generally performed unless a person is hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit with a flu-like illness. People who have flu-like symptoms that cannot be attributed to another diagnosis are assumed to have H1N1 flu because it is the most common strain of flu in our community. It is expected that most people will recover without needing medical care. If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for complications, seek medical care.

UPDATED 12/2/09: Pandemic H1N1 Vaccine

The H1N1 Vaccine is AVAILABLE at your local health department and participating providers. Flu season isn't over yet - so get vaccinated today!

The H1N1 vaccine is SAFE and it's FREE!!

The FDA has approved the 2009 Pandemic H1N1 Vaccine. This will be a different vaccine from the seasonal flu vaccine.

The seasonal flu vaccine is typically available through normal means and is available now; however some locations may have already given all of their doses. Please call to check availability. You will be charged for this vaccine as you have in years past. The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you against H1N1.

The Pandemic H1N1 vaccine is FEDERALLY PURCHASED vaccine and will be provided FREE OF CHARGE. Children 9 and younger will need to get 2 doses of the H1N1 vaccine, roughly 30 days apart. Children and adults 10 and older will only need 1 dose of the H1N1 vaccine.

H1N1 Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine Information

H1N1 Flu Shot Vaccine Information

Please continue to practice good hygiene to protect yourself!

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

Take everyday actions to stay healthy.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue 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. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.

Develop a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and other essential supplies.

Find healthy ways to deal with stress and anxiety.

Pandemic H1N1 Resources & Links

North Carolina residents may contact the NC Department of Health and Human Services’ Care-Line for general information about the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 (previously known as Swine Flu) at 1-800-662-7030 (English/Spanish) or 1-877-452-2514 (TTY) for the Hearing Impaired.

Serving the Counties of Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Pasquotank & Perquimans

ARHS PHP&R * 711 Roanoke Ave./ PO Box 189 * Elizabeth City * NC * 27907

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 (Swine Flu)