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Your guide to preventing and treating the flu

The flu is a broad term for several types of upper respiratory infections. Seasonal flu is usually the most common strain. In 2009, novel influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) created major health problems.


H1N1 Vaccine Available for Certain Patients (Updated 11/19/09)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has defined the groups of at-risk people who can receive vaccination based on vaccine availability. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services distributes vaccine throughout Wisconsin and expands the high risk groups to include more people when more vaccine is available.

As of 11/19/09, the current high risk groups will receive vaccinations before those at lower risk. These groups include:

  • Pregnant women
  • People who live with or care for infants less than 6 months old (examples: parents, siblings, daycare providers)
  • Children 6 months through 4 years of age
  • Children and adolescents 5 through 18 years of age who have chronic health conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications
  • Adults ages 19-64 years who have chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.
  • Health care and emergency medical services personnel who have direct patient care contact

When the higher-risk groups are vaccinated, then others will be vaccinated.

If a member of your family is in this target group, you should contact your doctor or a Marshfield Clinic location near you.

There is more information on the target groups for the H1N1 vaccination at High-risk groups for the flu.

The flu is a highly contagious and potentially serious infection of your upper respiratory system.

A different strain of the seasonal flu breaks out every year roughly from fall through spring.

H1N1 flu, also known as swine flu, is caused by a new variation of the flu virus.

Both seasonal flu and H1N1 flu have potentially serious complications.

Flu vaccinations are the most important, but not the only way of preventing the flu.

Test your knowledge of the flu by answering some common questions about flu myths and facts.

Quick answers to frequently asked questions about the flu.

Both the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu may be lurking at your work place - here's how to stay healthy.

 

Eau Claire Center to host two H1N1 vaccination clinics on November 24

Almost everyone should be vaccinated for the flu, especially those in a high-risk group.

For some people, the flu may result is serious complications. The high-risk groups for seasonal flu and H1N1 flu are different.

Five things you need to know to protect your baby.

For most healthy adults, the flu is not severe, however both the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu can cause serious complications and death.

Stay home and rest is often the best treatment. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-viral medications.

A variety of influenza research studies are currently under way at Marshfield Clinic.

Information from Marshfield Clinic and links to national and world health care providers.