H1N1 Information

2009 H1N1 Influenza Widespread in Central Texas

The 2009 Influenza season is well underway.  Dell Children’s Medical Center Emergency Department is seeing record numbers of patients with influenza like illnesses. The vast majority of circulating influenza virus in Texas is novel H1N1 Influenza virus.  Most of these illnesses are mild, but children, especially those under the age of two and those with certain high risk conditions are at higher risk for more serious illness.

An important part of prevention of influenza is vaccination.  The H1N1 Influenza vaccine will soon be available.  Seasonal influenza vaccine is available now.  Contact your health provider for information on these vaccines.  If your child has been exposed to a person with flu, or is showing symptoms suggestive of flu, please contact your child's pediatrician for diagnosis / prophylaxis / treatment as necessary.

For the most up to date and helpful information on this strain of Influenza, visit the following websites.  They offer extensive information on prevention, care of sick family members, therapy, and vaccination.

Sarmistha B. Hauger M.D.
Director, Pediatric Infectious Diseases
‘Specially For Children
Dell Children’s Medical Center

 

Helpful Websites:

• Flu.gov
• Texas Department of State Health Services
• Texas Flu.org
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weekly FluView