The once worldwide epidemic (pandemic) H1N1 influenza (sometimes called “swine flu”) is now in the post-pandemic stage, according to the World Health Organization (WHO, Aug 10, 2010). In 2009 many countries around the globe experienced the emergence of the new strain of virus to which most people had no immunity. It caused unusual and extensive outbreaks, and many suffered from severe symptoms and death. Whereas influenza is usually a seasonal phenomenon, the H1N1 2009 outbreak occurred throughout the winter and even the summer months in many countries.
The post-pandemic stage is characterized by the fact that since the virus has extensively spread throughout the continents in the past, some level of immunity among the different populations now exists. Except for a few like India, its pattern of occurrence is now more seasonal in many countries. However, outbreaks can still occur, especially in places which were not previously affected.
What's New About the 2011 Flu Vaccine
The American Academy of Pediatrics (Medscape Medical News, Aug 30, 2010) warns that the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic virus is expected to circulate and the following are expected to be most affected:
- Infants (under 6 months) and young children, who at increased risk of severe illness and death
- Children with chronic medical conditions include asthma, diabetes, morbid obesity, immunosuppression, and neurologic disorders
- Household members and out-of-home care providers of young children and adolescents at high risk
- Healthcare personnel
- Pregnant women
According to the WHO, people who are older than 65 years are least likely to be affected, but if they do get sick, they would most likely be severely affected by its complications, as in any seasonal flu.
Another group of people have also been added to the susceptible list - morbidly obese individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) >40. According to observations from last year they are at great risk from the complications of flu.
Although these people are the most vulnerable to acquire infection the CDC now recommends that everyone who is older than six months should be given an annual dose of influenza vaccine. The "universal" vaccine aims to protect as many people as possible in the United States. since the flu vaccine has been found to be safe it can be given even to healthy adults with no risk factors.
Another significant update is that children who are 6 months up to 8 years of age who have never received any flu shots are to be given two shots at least 4 weeks apart on their first year of immunization.
Senior citizens who are 65 years or older may be given a currently licensed inactivated vaccines, such as Fluzone High-Dose, a new vaccine designed specifically them.
How to Prevent Influenza Infection
The most important preventive measure to control outbreaks and protect individuals from the flu is for people to receive annual trivalent seasonal influenza immunization. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against 3 flu viruses, including the 2009 H1N1. Susceptible members of the population mentioned above should consult their pediatricians and family doctors to know more about the schedules and recommendations for flu vaccines.
Influenza spreads mainly by the respiratory route, that is, by inhaling the virus after an affected person sneezes, coughs or talks at close range. Direct contact with the secretions of a sick person and transmitting these through the mouth and nose using the hands is another common way of acquiring the illness.
Therefore, aside from vaccination, the general measures by which the public may help prevent the spread of the flu virus are:
- Proper hand washing with soap and water
- Avoid contact with sick people
- Avoid crowds and using social distancing measures especially during the flu season
- Avoid touching the mouth, nose and eyes, especially after social physical contact
- Follow public health guidelines and advice
According to the updated guidelines of the AAP, the only antiviral chemoprophylaxis routinely recommended for present season are oseltamivir and zanamivir, to which current strains of influenza are susceptible. However, resistance to these antiviral agents may occur and should therefore be verified.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Angelica Giron - Dr Angelica Samarista-Giron is a medical graduate, an anesthesiologist, trained at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine. ...
