Influenza (flu) is a contagious disease

2009 H1N1 influenza (also called Swine Flu) is caused by a new strain of influenza virus. It has spread to many countries. Like other flu viruses, 2009 H1N1 spreads from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and sometimes through touching objects contaminated with the virus.

The flu virus can cause:

• fatigue
  
• fever
• sore throat
• chills
• coughing
• sneezing
• muscle aches

Some people also have diarrhea and vomiting. Most people feel better within a week. But some people get pneumonia or other serious illnesses. Some people have to be hospitalized and some die.

How is 2009 H1N1 Different from regular (seasonal) flu?

Seasonal flu viruses change from year to year, but they are closely related to each other. People who have had flu infections in the past usually have some immunity to seasonal flu viruses (their bodies have built up some ability to fight off the viruses). The 2009 H1N1 flu is a new flu virus. It is very different from seasonal flu viruses. Most people have little or no immunity to 2009 H1N1 flu (their bodies are not prepared to fight off the virus).

There are two types of Influenza vaccine:

• Inactivated, attenuated(killed) vaccine, or the "flu shot", is given by injection and can be given to people 6 months of age and older.
• Live, attenuated (weakened) influenza vaccine, called LAIV, is sprayed into the nostrils (intra-nasal) and is approved for healthy people from 2 through 49 years of age, who are not pregnant. LAIV is thimerosal and preservative free.

Please read both Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) below and then ask your Passport Health Travel Medical Specialist which vaccine is right for you.

Who should get the H1N1 Influenza Vaccine?

• Health care and emergency medical personnel
• Pregnant women
• Anyone with certain chronic medical conditions or a weakened immune system
• People who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months of age
• School age children
• Anyone from 6 months through 24 years of age

The Federal government is providing this vaccine for receipt on a voluntary basis. However, state law or employers may require vaccination for certain persons.

Children through 9 years of age should get two doses of vaccine, about a month apart. Older children and adults need only one dose.