Preparing for H1N1 this Flu Season

. September 17, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC, September 18, 2009 - With the flu season upon us, it is fitting we are also in the midst of National Preparedness Month. We all share in the responsibility to be ready for the H1N1 flu virus.

Because of the global public health risks, everyone is strongly encouraged to get the traditional seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible. H1N1 shots will be available soon, but getting the traditional seasonal flu vaccine now will build added immunity in your body, further preparing you this flu season.

You can find the seasonal influenza vaccine at a number of places, such as physician offices, clinics, and neighborhood pharmacies.

While vaccination is certainly important, there are other ways you can protect yourself and your family this flu season. Practice simple, commonsense measures like washing your hands frequently, and coughing and sneezing into your sleeve. If you feel sick, stay home and remain at home until at least 24 hours after you are free of signs of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications. Take flu antiviral drugs if recommended by your doctor.

And be sure to check out the different guidance recommendations the federal government has released over the past several weeks to help people be prepared. This week, DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano was joined by Small Business Administrator Karen Mills and health officials to announce flu preparedness guidance for small businesses. These recommendations can help small businesses prepare for challenges like increased absenteeism that could occur during the flu season.

You can also view flu guidance for:

The private sector
K-12 schools
Institutions of higher education
Child care centers
The travel industry
Throughout your community

The preparedness steps you take today can protect you throughout the flu season. Don't wait until you or someone close to you gets sick. Visit www.flu.gov for more information about what you can do to prepare yourself and others for H1N1.