H1N1 questions answered
October 20, 2009
Theresa Boyle
Why should I be worried about swine flu?
It's a new strain of influenza and because humans have little to no natural immunity to this virus, it can cause serious widespread illness.
Who should get the vaccine?
Everyone six months of age and older is encouraged to get it.
Is the vaccine safe?
Vaccines are among the safest and most effective tools of modern medicine, says Canada's top doctor, David Butler-Jones. Vaccine-preventable diseases such as H1N1 pose a much greater danger.
How do I get it?
Stay tuned. Public health units are finalizing details of H1N1 vaccination clinics.
How do I know if I have swine flu?
If you catch influenza this flu season, chances are it's H1N1, which has become the dominant strain. It almost always starts with the sudden onset of a cough and fever. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, headache, decreased appetite and runny nose.
Should I still get the H1N1 vaccine if I think I've already had swine flu?
Yes, says Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Arlene King.
When does flu season peak?
Normally flu season peaks in late December or early January, but it's expected to peak earlier this year.
What should I do if I get the flu?
The majority of cases are mild, so the advice for most people is to stay home and rest. If you don't start to feel better after a few days or if your symptoms get worse, call your health-care provider or Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Call immediately if you experience symptoms and are pregnant or frail, elderly, have heart, lung or immune disease, or have a chronic health problem.
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