With the H1N1 (swine) flu widespread throughout the country and many people seeking vaccinations, the American Red Cross is offering answers to common questions about the virus.
For the answers to frequently asked questions, the Red Cross has consulted with our medical advisory group, the Advisory Council for First Aid, Aquatics, Safety and Preparedness. This 30-member panel of nationally-recognized health professionals and medical experts holds degrees and certifications in emergency medicine, disaster mobilization and emergency response.
Is the H1N1 vaccine safe? Yes. The H1N1 vaccine is being manufactured in the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine using the same standards and quality control measures.
Why are there two different flu vaccines this year? One vaccine is for seasonal flu and one is for H1N1 (swine) flu. There was not enough time to consider combining these into one vaccine because the H1N1 virus was discovered in humans too late in the year.
If I have flu-symptoms, should I go to the emergency room? Generally, no. Emergency rooms are crowded with patients who have common flu symptoms that are easily cared for at home. However, there are exceptions. For example, if you are pregnant or have a chronic medical condition, you should contact your health care provider. If you are having any flu symptoms and are concerned about complications, seek medical care.
How do I protect myself and my family while I wait for the vaccine? You can take these simple steps to help prevent the spread of the flu virus:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
- Wash your hands often, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (60-95% alcohol) are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
Is hand sanitizer that contains alcohol safe for children to use? Yes, as long as they don’t ingest it. If you need to apply hand sanitizer to very young children or babies, make sure it dries before they are allowed to eat or put their hands in their mouth.
The H1N1 swine flu pandemic is currently widespread in 48 states, according to the latest reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC stresses that it is important for people with asthma and other underlying conditions to get vaccinated. According to the CDC, there is a continuing steady increase in the amount of H1N1 flu vaccine available.
The CDC also recommends that you stay home if you are sick, and protect yourself and others by washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth when you cough and sneeze.
You can find more information about how to help keep you and your loved ones protected from the H1N1 flu virus by visiting the pandemic flu section of RedCross.org, or www.flu.gov.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
