H1N1 should be treated in children and adults Published Nov. 10, 2009 By Melanie Moore 779th MDG Malcolm Grow Medical Center -- Peak months for seasonal influenza (flu) outbreaks are usually during the winter months of January and February. In addition to seasonal flu, 2009 H1N1 (formerly "swine flu") represents an additional virus infecting people this season. 2009 H1N1 is widespread throughout the United States at this time and will likely continue throughout the winter months and possibly beyond. We are still waiting for another wave of flu, seasonal flu, to arrive and cause illness in a large number of people. Thankfully, most people with seasonal or 2009 H1N1 flu experience mild illness and have recovered without needing medical care. However, seasonal and 2009 H1N1 have caused severe illness and death and therefore onset of symptoms must be taken seriously. The symptoms of seasonal and H1N1 flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting or diarrhea. People at " high risk" of serious complications are people 65 years and older, children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and kidney disease. Patients at particularly high risk from 2009 H1N1 are pregnant people and young children, especially those under the age of five. It is also important to keep in mind the "danger" signals of serious illness requiring immediate medical attention. In children, these symptoms include fast breathing or trouble breathing, bluish skin color, not drinking enough fluids, not waking up or not interacting, being so irritable that the child does not want to be held, or flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough, fever with a rash. In adults, these danger warning signals include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, or severe or persistent vomiting. It is highly recommended that people who believe they are experiencing symptoms of flu visit the following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for further information about 2009 H1N1 and staying home. After reviewing this information, it is imperative that all patients contact their supervisor at work prior to a decision to stay home. Daily contact with your supervisor and/or a family member is also strongly recommended for patients deciding to stay at home with the flu. If you are ill with the flu and desire further information, the 779 Medical Group has a 24/7 Flu Information Line @ 240-857-7777 or DSN 857-7777. Furthermore, if you are ill and, at any time, think you need to be seen by a medical provider, please proceed to Malcolm Grow Medical Center Emergency Department or the nearest Emergency Department. Remember, the very best way to prevent seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu is by receiving separate vaccinations for both of these flu strains, by washing your hands frequently and by practicing good cough etiquette. Finally, medical treatment facilities are now authorized to use civilian supplies of 2009 H1N1 vaccine for Active Duty personnel in the following target groups: pregnant women, persons who live with or provide care for infants aged less than 6 months (e.g. parents, siblings, and daycare providers), healthcare and emergency medical personnel, and persons aged 6 months to 64 years who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for serious influenza-related complications.