Understanding the H1N1 virus

As we approach the flu season, we are faced with some new strains that seem to have everyone scrambling to figure out what to do.

The arrival of the H1N1 virus last spring is the one causing the most confusion. There is a lot of conflicting information floating around and it's no wonder that the general public isn't sure about how to prepare for the flu.

Douglas County and the state of Nevada are working together to clear this up. They will be releasing current information to the newspapers as well as the radio and television stations to help everyone understand what they can do.

n Why is the H1N1 vaccine separate from the regular flu vaccine? Developing a vaccine takes time. The vaccine you receive this fall was developed about a year ago. Any new strains that arrive after the vaccine is made are usually included in the next year's vaccine. That's why some people still get the flu even if they receive a flu shot.

When the H1N1 (originally called the swine flu) arrived earlier this year, it reminded the experts of the flu pandemic of 1918. The Center for Disease Control decided to begin work on a vaccine to help those who would be most vulnerable to this new strain of flu. Next year's seasonal flu vaccine will include this component.

n Why isn't it available for everyone? The vaccine for H1N1 is primarily for the younger generation because they are not old enough to have been exposed to a wide variety of flu viruses which would allow their bodies to develop immunity. The vaccine, therefore, will first be given to pregnant women, then to adult caregivers for infants under 6 months, then to children from 6 months to 4 years, then school age children and young adults. Those with underlying health conditions that may compromise their ability to fight the infection will also be eligible for the vaccine.

n What can I do to help the spread of H1N1 and other flu viruses? First and foremost, washing your hands several times a day, especially if you have a cold or are around someone with a cold will help you stay healthy and well. Learning to sneeze into your shirt or shirt sleeve is another way to prevent the spread of the virus. A sneeze sends germs out up to five feet so it's important to minimize their coverage if we can.

Remembering that the germs are alive for several hours on surfaces such as doorknobs, telephones, keyboards, grocery cart handles, etc. helps you to understand how frequent hand washing can help contain the spread of the flu.

The American Red Cross offers Scrubby Bear classes for 3-8 year-olds to teach proper hand washing as well as the importance of hygiene. If your group would like a presentation, please call 856-1000 to schedule a date. There are two other classes - Tommy the Safety Cat (for 3-6 year-olds) and First Aid for Children (kindergarten through third grade) - that also teach kids important skills. 

For more information on the upcoming flu season, please go to www.flu.nv.gov.

Have a ramblin' good week.

Reach Gail Davis at 265-1947 or RuhenstrothRamblings@yahoo.com