Letter to the Editor: Responding to H1N1 Flu

H1N1 has arrived on Orcas Island, with several confirmed cases in the Public Schools.  The symptoms are similar to seasonal flu cases, and can be treated symptomatically with bedrest, fluids, and fever lowering medicines.  It is usually not necessary to see your physician for diagnosis or testing since in most cases recovery occurs without complications.  Most children will have fever and either cough or sorethroat, and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea.

Contact your physician if the following exists:
1. Age less than 12 weeks and fever over 100.3
2. Dehydrated – no tears, little urine, not drinking
3. Labored breathing, i.e., grunting, wheezing, skin between the ribs sink in with each breath, flaring of the nostrils with each breath.

For adults, over the age of 18 years, fever, cough and/or sorethroat are common and often associated with body aches and headaches.  Medical care should be sought if there is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain in the chest, dizziness and/or confusion, severe vomiting, initial improvement  then return or worsening within a few days.  Any child or adult with flu-like symptoms who have underlying medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, asthma, heart disease should talk to their health care provider to discuss antiviral treatment.

Remember that antiviral treatment must be started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms in order for it to be effective.  There is a toll-free H1N1 Hotline available 24/7 if you wish additional information.

It is available in both English and Spanish.  Simply dial 2-1-1 and listen to the prompts. Information is updated frequently when new information is available, so check back often.

Currently vaccines are in short supply.  The injectable vaccine is currently prioritized for the following groups:

1. Pregnant women
2. Caregivers of an infant , 6 months
3. Children 6 months through 4 years of age (healthy or high risk)
4. Children 5 years to 24 years with high risk medical conditions, i.e. diabetes, asthma, etc.
5. Health care workers/EMS with direct patient care

And finally, staying away from others if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, and remember to wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs, avoid sharing utensils or food, and stay home until your fever is gone for 24 hours.

Dale Heisinger, MD