H1N1 influenza virus is an illness that is spread when respiratory droplets land on surfaces that are touched by others.  The H1N1 strain, once referred to as swine flu, has genes from flu viruses that circulate in pigs, birds and humans.  H1N1 can vary in severity.  Pregnant women, diabetics and people who suffer from asthma and heart and kidney disease have the highest risk of severe disease.  Severe H1N1 infections can require hospitalizations and cause death.  Milder cases that cause symptoms similar to those associated with seasonal flu won't require medical attention.  Precautionary measures should be practiced to prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.  The City of Coppell is monitoring and working closely with Dallas County Health and Human Services and the Texas Department of State Health Services concerning the outbreak of H1N1 Flu in the nation and our area. 
 

What You Can Do To Stay Healthy

With the  H1N1 flu virus circulating, it is now possible to become infected with the new strain and seasonal flu strains.  Work these preventative measures into your daily routine to limit your exposure to germs:
 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Get a seasonal flu shot every year and get one to protect against H1N1 as soon as one is available.
• Stay home for at least 24 hours if you have flu-like symptoms and until your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medication.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer regularly.
• Use your elbow to shield your cough or sneeze.  If you use a tissue, throw it away after you use it.
• Don't share personal items such as toothbrushes, drinking glasses or towels.
• Be prepared with supplies in case you get sick and need to stay home for an extended period of time.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures. 
   

What You Need to Know About H1N1 Influenza

• How do I know if I have H1N1 flu or seasonal flu?
  The H1N1 virus is what is circulating now.  Because the new strain is similar to seasonal flu in terms of severity, it is being treated like seasonal flu.

• What are the symptoms?
  People who have been infected with the virus report fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue.  Some people have reported vomiting and diarrhea.

• What is the treatment?
  Call your doctor first and ask for any specific instructions that may suit your medical condition.  They may recommend antiviral medications such as Tamiflu or Relenza.

• What if I'm not experiencing any symptoms?
  Some infected people will show no symptoms.  You should still incorporate the preventative steps daily to prevent the spread of germs.

• What if my symptoms improve, but then return?
  If your fever returns or your cough worsens, you should seek urgent medical attention, especially if you have difficulty breathing or experience persistent vomiting, sudden dizziness or pain in your chest or abdomen.

HANDOUTS

Flu Fact Sheet

Seasonal Flu or Pandemic Flu?    
Prevent Illness and Spreading

For more information on H1N1 Flu, click on a Web site below.

TexasFlu.org

Dallas County Health and Human Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - H1N1 Flu

Flu.gov