The Alabama Department of Public Health reports high incidence of influenza in our state. Influenza type A, H1N1 (also known as 2009 H1N1, the pandemic strain, or pH1N1) has been the predominant strain circulating virus so far this season. One characteristic of pH1N1 is that, similar to the pandemic of 2009, young and middle-aged adults seem to have a greater chance of severe influenza.

Flu is a very contagious respiratory illness. Here are some ways to prevent it from spreading:

1) Cover a cough or sneeze with your sleeve or tissue, not your bare hand. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

2) Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
3) Avoid touching your mouth, eyes and nose with your hands.
4) Stay six feet away from anyone who is sick.
5) Regularly clean and disinfect publicly used surfaces.
6) If you are sick, stay home. Do not go to an emergency room or show up at your physician’s office unannounced. Call your doctor first to make arrangements.

FLU-RELATED LINKS

Alabama Department of Public Health
Centers for Disease Control
World Health Organization
CDC Guidance for Employers to Plan for Influenza Season
Resources for Businesses and Employers
Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
(Anyone who thinks that they may have had an adverse event after receiving an influenza vaccine should file a report.)

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH  FLU BULLETINS

Monday, Dec. 30, 2013: Alabama experiences significant H1N1 influenza activity this season
Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013: Alabama experiences significant influenza activity early in flu season