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Update on H1N1 flu
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H1N1 flu is on many people's minds as children flood back to school. School administrators are planning how to teach students from home in case they are forced to close their doors (check out moodle.org) and the Department of Health is creating and disseminating its vaccination plan.
Maryland physicians have recently been contacted by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and updated on its 2009-2010 H1N1 preparations. There have been outbreaks in Maryland over the summer, especially in summer camps, and a total of 164 patients have been hospitalized. Seven people have died.
Health officials have noted resistance to antivirals (such as Tamiflu) in other states, although this has not yet been a problem in Maryland. Some, but not all, people who are asymptomatic but have been exposed to H1N1 flu should receive anti-viral prophylaxis. These high risk groups include pregnant women, children <5 years of age, and those with underlying chronic illnesses or immunosuppression.
A vaccine is currently being produced and it will be available through the Maryland Department of Health in mid-Fall. It will require 2 shots, 3 weeks apart. A nasal spray may also be available. The highest priority groups for vaccination are: healthcare workers, children aged 6 months to 2 years, pregnant women, household contacts of infants <6 months, and people <65 years of age with chronic medical conditions.
Remember that this vaccine does not protect you against the regular seasonal flu. To be protected against both diseases you'll need 2 different vaccinations.
Of course, there is much that you can do to decrease your risk of infection. Maximize your immune system by getting plenty of sleep and eating healthy foods, stay away from people who are obviously ill, wash your hands multiple times during the day and before you eat, and never, never, never pick your nose unless you just washed your hands!
Be well,
Dr. Chiaramonte
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