A 10-year-old boy receives the H1N1 vaccine in the vaccine's nasal spray form. (Photo Courtesy of MedImmune)
Fighting the New Flu
Schools are on the front lines with a vaccine to help stop the spread of H1N1
Flu season has begun—and this year there’s a new bug in town. In addition to the seasonal, or wintertime, flu, the United States is fighting a new virus: the H1N1 flu. To help stop the virus from spreading, a new vaccine is being offered to many children right in their schools.
H1N1 is like the flu that makes many people sick each winter. It may cause a sore throat, runny nose, headache, fever, cough, and fatigue, or tiredness. Most people who get H1N1 feel better after a few days. As with seasonal flu, a small number get sick enough to go to the hospital. A few patients have died.
The Battle Against H1N1
The H1N1 virus first appeared in Mexico in April. It soon spread to the U.S. and other countries. The quick spread sparked fears of an epidemic, or outbreak among many people.
The new vaccine is a key piece of the plan to stop the spread of H1N1. "Flu vaccine is our best tool to protect against the flu," says Dr. Thomas R. Frieden. Dr. Frieden is the head of the CDC, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Getting the Vaccine
Most states plan to give the vaccine in schools. Many schoolchildren in Ohio, Arkansas, Virginia, and New York have already received it.
The vaccine comes in two forms. One is a nasal, or nose, spray. The other is given as a shot. The nasal spray is the form schools have so far been giving kids.
Don’t Forget to Wash Your Hands!
Doctors say there are also simple steps just about everyone can take to prevent illness. Here’s what you can do to stay healthy and not spread germs:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Or, sneeze into the bend of your arm.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds. (Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice if you don’t want to count!)
- Don’t share drinking glasses, dishes, forks, or spoons.
- Try to not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands.
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Print a Flu Prevention Tip Sheet in color or black and white. For K-8 students who miss school due to illness, Stay Smart! School Continuation Plan. |
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