Make a Donation Influenza A (H1N1)
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?
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
