Prevention & Treatment
Get Vaccinated. Vaccination is the best protection against contracting the flu. You need two vaccines to be fully protected this year. The seasonal flu vaccine is different from the H1N1 (Swine) flu vaccine. The CDC is encouraging people to get both vaccinations. Get both vaccinations as soon as possible. More information on VaccinationFind a Flu Clinic Near You and Get Vaccinated. Visit the Google Flu Shot Locator or our Flu Shot Locator page, to find flu shots in your area.
If you do contract the flu, talk to your doctor about antivirals. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that can be used for prevention or treatment of flu viruses. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. Two types of antivirals, Oseltamivir (TAMIFLU®) and Zanamivir (RELENZA®) may be prescribed for the H1N1 flu. In addition, PERAMIVIR IV, has been authorized under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to treat certain patients with suspected or confirmed 2009 H1N1 flu virus infection. More information on medications and antivirals.
Beware of fraudulent or bogus products.The FDA is alerting the public to be wary of Internet sites and other promotions for products that claim to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The FDA is advising offending Web sites to correct and/or remove promotions of fraudulent products or face enforcement action and the Federal Trade Commission has sent warning letters to Web site operators making questionable claims that their products can prevent, treat, or cure the H1N1 flu. List of Fraudulent H1N1 Flu Products
Keep things in perspective and maintain a hopeful outlook. It’s important to be cautious and get vaccinated, but try to limit your worry and agitation about the 2009 flu season. Bear in mind that vast majority of people who have contracted the H1N1 flu have recovered without requiring medical treatment. For more information, read “Managing Your Anxiety about H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)” from the American Psychological Association and “Preparing for a H1N1 (Swine Flu) Pandemic - Coping and Emotional Well Being” [PDF – 85KB] from the American Red Cross.
Take Three When it comes to influenza, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it's best to Take Three. |
Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
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 this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100°F or 37.8°C) or signs of a fever (without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®). Read detailed information about how long to stay away from others.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
If you must have close contact with a sick person (for example, hold a sick infant), try to wear a facemask or N95 disposable respirator. More on Facemasks and Respirators.