CDC 2009 H1N1 Flu

Site last updated February 05, 2010 8:00 PM ET

Situation Update

Flu Activity: FluView reports that for the week of January 24-30, 2010, flu activity in the United States remained about the same as during the previous week. Flu activity is relatively low at this time, with most flu continuing to be caused by 2009 H1N1. Flu activity, caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses, may rise and fall, but it is expected to continue for several more months.
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Vaccination: CDC recommends influenza vaccination as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. CDC is now encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against 2009 H1N1, including people 65 years and older. While less likely to get sick with 2009 H1N1 than younger people, people 65 and older are at high risk of serious complications if they do get sick. Vaccination of people with certain health conditions also is important because they also are at higher risk of serious flu-related complications. Health conditions that increase the risk of being hospitalized from 2009 H1N1 include lung disease like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, heart, or neurologic disease, and pregnancy.
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General Information

Vaccination

Diagnosis

How the illness is diagnosed, recommendations for lab testing…

Infection Control

Healthcare guidance, occupational safety, facemasks & respirators…

Antivirals/Treatment

Use of Tamiflu and Relenza for treatment or prevention of H1N1 flu…

Emergency Use Authorization

Info about CDC-requested & FDA-issued EUA drugs & devices…

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

Get vaccinated against seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu. Vaccination is the best protection we have against flu. CDC is now encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against 2009 H1N1. The vaccines to protect against 2009 H1N1 are widely available. Supplies of seasonal flu vaccine may be limited. Find a vaccine
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Stay informed. This website will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information.