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Influenza A (H1N1)

November 2009

Influenza: Influenza is a highly contagious infection which affects respiratory tracts. It is caused by a virus, called influenza, and is transmitted human-to-human through the respiratory system by inhaling droplets expelled through the coughs and sneezes of infected people.

Pandemic: We are talking about a pandemic when the epidemic is worldwide and when the viral strain is new, different from those which circulate every year.

Symptoms of Influenza

Similar to those of the common flu:
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
Sometimes: Nasal congestion, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Flu and vaccination

      http://www.msss.gouv.qc.ca/extranet/pandemie/consentement/index_en.html

Ways to protect against influenza:
  • Wash or disinfect your hands
  • Limit contacts
  • Vaccination

Hygiene and prevention:
  • Handwashing with soap and water or an antiseptic
          http://publications.msss.gouv.qc.ca/acrobat/f/documentation/pandemie/Lavage-Mains.mov

  • Handwashing
  • The use of an antibacterial soap is not necessary

  • Disinfecting your hands

  • Coughing and sneezing

Vaccination For yourself….and for others!
  • Where to go?
  • What to bring?
            ID with photo: Health insurance card
            Wear short sleeves!!!

  • Stay at home or go to work?
 
Decision Chart - If you have flu symptoms

Precautions and care
  • Get some rest
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Take medication to relieve symptoms (Tylenol, Advil, Motrin)
  • Protect those around you
  • Keep your home clean
  • Get help
  • Stay informed
  • For a sore throat:
    • drops
    • Gargle with salt water (2.5 ml of salt in 240 ml warm water)
  • Keep your environment clean:

    • The influenza virus can survive up to two days on hard surfaces.
    It is important to:
    • Clean counters, sinks, door handles, keyboards, and all other surfaces that are frequently touched with the hands.
    • Use water with soap or domestic detergents.
    • A disinfectant solution (for example, 1 part bleach in 50 parts water) is highly effective for toilets and sinks.

Resources
  • Self-care guide

  • Info-Santé : 8-1-1

    •      Questions about your health
ALSO
          As the flu causes stress and insecurity to some people, social workers and therapists are also available.

  • Services Québec, every day, from 8:30am to 4:30pm, at 1 877 644-4545

Frequently asked questions:

Contagiousness: According to the current data: 7 days, but more often from 1 to 4 days. An infected person can be contagious up to 24 hours before symptoms appear up until 7 days after they begin.

Most people in good health recover from influenza on their own.

When to consult:
  • Persons with chronic heart or lung diseases
  • Pregnant women
  • Shortness of breath, difficulty or painful breathing
  • Vomiting for more than four hours
  • Dehydration
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Children under 2 years of age
At work:
  • Wash your hands often with water and soap. Use an alcohol-based antiseptic (60 to 70% of alcohol) if water and soap are not available;
  • Clean nearby hard surfaces and objects that might be touched or handled by those around you (telephones, keyboards);
  • Avoid greeting people with handshakes, hugs or kisses;
  • Stay at home if you are sick

 

For more information about the influenza A (H1N1):

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