H1N1 FLU
OUTPATIENT / EMERGENCY PATIENTS
What is H1N1?
H1N1 is a virus that is part of a family of viruses called Influenza A. Influenza A viruses belong to a collection of viruses
that are responsible for our annual flu season. This particular H1N1 is a new Influenza A virus. It was previously called
Swine Influenza. This virus passes from human to human.
What are the symptoms of H1N1?
H1N1 Flu Virus is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of the regular seasonal flu. The symptoms include
the following:
Almost Always:
Common:
Sometimes:
 Sudden onset of cough and fever
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Fatigue
Headache
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Muscle aches
Decreased appetite
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Sore throat
Runny nose
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
Should I be tested and treated for H1N1?
Only patients who are at high risk of complications or require hospitalization will be tested and treated. Patients who are
low risk with mild symptoms will not be tested.
Who are at high risk for developing complications?
Patients who are considered more at risk of developing complications if they get sick with H1N1 are:
1.
Children under five years of age (especially those less than two years old)
2.
Women who are pregnant
3.
People with chronic conditions such as:
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Heart disease
Kidney disease
Diabetes
Asthma and chronic lung disease
Neurological disorders
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Liver disease
Blood disorders
Severe obesity
Immunosuppressed (people taking
cancer drugs or people with HIV AIDS)
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How is testing performed if I am considered high risk?
Testing is performed by using a swab to take a sample from the back of your nose. It takes a few days for the results to
come back from the lab.
How is H1N1 Influenza treated if I am considered at risk of developing
complications?
There are a number of different treatments which include drinking plenty of fluids and medication to relieve fever or aches
and pains. If you are at risk of developing complications you will receive an antiviral drug. Other treatments may be used
in consultation with your doctor. Please talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
Should I receive antiviral medication if I have no symptoms?
No. Antivirals are not recommended for patients who are not suspected of having or do not have symptoms of H1N1 flu..
This applies to all patients including those at risk of developing complications.
Should I receive antiviral medication if I have been in contact with someone with
H1N1 flu?
No. Antivirals are not recommended for people who are not suspected or do not have symptoms of H1N1 influenza even
if they have been in contact with an individual with H1N1 influenza. This applies for everyone including those at risk of
developing complications. Antiviral medication may be considered for outbreaks in closed settings affecting vulnerable
patients. Public Health would be consulted for these cases.
Can I spread the virus to others?
Yes, but there are some things you can do to prevent this:
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Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer
Cough and sneeze into your sleeve.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
If you do not feel well, stay at home (do not go to work, parties, or other social gatherings)
Keep 2 meters (6 feet) away from people who are coughing and sneezing
Keep high touch areas at home and work (phones, door knobs, etc.) clean
Do not visit patients or residents of health care facilities if you are sick
What if I am not getting better?
Most people who get sick with H1N1 influenza get better after a few days. If you feel you or your child's condition is
worsening or if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, return to the emergency room for reassessment
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increasing difficulty breathing
Worsening cough
Sudden worsening of the fever
Confusion
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