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Facts about the H1N1 flu

Pandemic H1N1 influenza means that a new influenza virus is circulating all over the world.  Several hundred cases have been confirmed in Oregon, with about 1-in-every 4 cases coming from Multnomah County.  The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expects that people will keep getting sick with this new influenza during the next several months, and that the number of people affected will peak some time from October to January. 

How severe is it?

Most people infected with this new virus have symptoms similar to seasonal influenza, including a cough, sore throat, body aches and pains and a fever. Influenza is a respiratory disease, but ill people can also experience diarrhea and vomiting. The concern with this new influenza virus is that some otherwise healthy people – especially young adults -- have become sick enough to need hospitalization or have died from influenza-related complications. Unlike with seasonal flu, few cases have emerged among people age 65 and older.

How is it spread?
H1N1 can be spread when someone with the flu coughs or sneezes on you, or when you touch something with flu virus on it and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Is there a vaccine?
A vaccine has been developed specifically for this new virus and is expected to be available this fall. Planners anticipate that there will be enough vaccine for all who need it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for the following groups:

• Pregnant women;

• Families and caregivers of infants younger than 6 months;

• Anyone younger than 25, other than infants;

• Adults 25 to 64 with underlying medical conditions;

• Healthcare and emergency medical workers.

For more information, visit the public health page on the county's website.