Influenza A/H1N1

The H1N1 vaccine is still available for all BC residents. Mass public clinics ended in December 2009 but the vaccine is still available at local public health units as well as through doctors' offices and trained pharmacists.

About the disease

Influenza, often called the 'flu' is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by an influenza virus.

In April, 2009 a new strain of influenza virus was found in Mexico City, pandemic influenza A/H1N1 (H1N1), also known as swine influenza. This virus contains parts of genes from pig, bird and human influenza. The combination of genes in H1N1 has never been seen before and almost everyone is susceptible.

What are the symptoms of H1N1 infection?
How can I prevent getting sick with H1N1?

About the vaccine

BC has started immunizing with both adjuvanted and non-adjuvanted H1N1 vaccines. The Public Health Agency of Canada has identified groups who will benefit most from immunization and those who care for them, and groups who will also benefit from immunization.

Who should get the vaccine now?
Those who will benefit most from immunization
Those who care for them
Others who will benefit from immunization
Where can I get the vaccine?
What are the symptoms of H1N1 infection?
How can I prevent getting sick with H1N1?

Who should get the vaccine now?

All BC residents can now get the H1N1 flu vaccine. While mass public clinics ended on December 18, 2009, the H1N1 vaccine is still available at public health units located on this map, as well as through doctors’ offices and trained pharmacists.

Use the Flu Clinic Locator to find a clinic near you, or contact your family doctor or pharmacist.

Those who will benefit most from immunization include:

People under 65 with chronic medical conditions, because they are at higher risk of complications due to H1N1 infection. Pregnant women, because they are at highest risk of severe disease and pregnancy complications. The vaccine may also protect their fetus and newborn infant. Children 6 months to less than 5 years old, because they are at particular risk for severe disease and hospitalization. Persons residing in remote and isolated settings, because they often have limited access to medical care.

Those who care for them include:

Health care workers, because this will protect health care workers, prevent outbreaks and stop the potential spread of H1N1 to vulnerable patients. Household contacts and care providers of persons at high risk who cannot be immunized or may not respond to vaccines, because this will protect those are at risk. This includes infants less than 6 months old and people who are immunocompromised.

 

Others who will benefit from immunization include:

Children 5 to 18 years old, because this group has the highest rate of H1N1 infection and can transmit the infection to many other people. First responders, because they frequently attend emergency health situations. Poultry and swine workers, to reduce risk of co-infection of these workers with H1N1 and other influenza strains. Co-infection could lead to the emergence of new influenza viruses. Adults 19 to 64 years old, because they have an increased risk of severe H1N1 disease. Adults 65 years and older, because they may have a reduced response to the vaccine.

Where can I get the vaccine?

Contact your local Public Health unit or your physician for more information on where to get your vaccine. Find your local Public Health office.

What are the symptoms of H1N1 infection?

The symptoms of pH1N1 are similar to those of normal seasonal influenza. These include high fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, chills, fatigue, eye pain, shortness of breath and lack of appetite. Some people, especially children, also experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Symptoms or complications such as severe respiratory distress or pneumonia may develop in moderate or severe infections. People with chronic health conditions are more likely to develop moderate or severe infections.

How can I prevent getting sick with H1N1?

The best way to protect yourself and those around you is to get the vaccine.

Until the vaccine is available, remember to:

Stay home when you're sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, use your elbow. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
	Wash your hands frequently using soap and water. Use an alcohol-based disposable hand wipe or gel sanitizer if you can't access soap and water. Practice other good health habits: get enough sleep, keep physically active, manage your stress, eat nutritiously, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid smoking. Smoking can increase your risk of serious consequences from influenza.