October 26, 2009 –
MAYETTA: The following information about the flu vaccines was dessimnated by Jerry Briscoe, Administrator of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Health Center, recently.
Seasonal Flu
The Potawatomi Health Center can screen for the virus but has exhausted its supply of seasonal flu vaccine. More is expected in the next few weeks.
H1N1 Flu
The Potawatomi Health Center can screen for the virus but the vaccine is not available at this time.
What is the state of Kansas doing in response?
KDHE is working closely with local health departments, Kansas hospitals, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the sources of exposure and monitor these cases. KDHE’s goals during this public health emergency are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to assist health care providers, public health officials and the public in addressing the challenges posed by this newly identified influenza virus. Individuals who have been in contact with the patients are being interviewed and tested as appropriate.
In accordance with the Kansas Response Plan, KDHE is also monitoring and instituting recommendations from CDC for any additional influenza disease surveillance activities, reviewing plans to further enhance those activities, and advising health care providers regarding testing for persons who have symptoms consistent with H1N1 flu virus, especially if they have recently been to areas that have confirmed cases of H1N1 flu virus, and taking other steps under the plan.
What symptoms should I be alert to?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in humans are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include:
- Fever greater than 100 degrees
- Body aches
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Respiratory congestion
- In some cases, diarrhea and vomiting
What else can I do?
As with any influenza virus, individuals are encouraged to take the following steps to reduce spread:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to get rid of most germs and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading illness to co-workers and friends.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues.
- Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest and exercise.