Revised visitation rules

Health Alert: H1N1 Update

Last updated: Thursday, October 22, 2009 4:46:57 PM

The H1N1 influenza is an entirely different virus from the seasonal flu experienced by thousands of Americans each year. Very young children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are at greatest risk of contracting the virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control, these individuals should be vaccinated with a different vaccine than the seasonal flu shot because the seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 virus.

Who is at high risk of contracting the H1N1 virus?

Children under age 5 are considered high risk for contracting H1N1 influenza, and unless children are ill, parents and guardians should avoid bringing them to the hospital.

In addition, visitors with flu-like symptoms could spread the virus to patients and staff. To prevent this from happening, Shands Jacksonville health officials kindly request those experiencing flu-like symptoms refrain from visiting others at the hospital.

What patients and visitors will see at Shands Jacksonville

• Increased sites for hand cleansing before and after patient encounters
• Patients wearing masks while they are being evaluated
• Staff wearing masks when they are caring for patients with respiratory infections that could be H1N1

How to avoid contracting the H1N1 virus

• Avoid contact with persons who are ill as much as possible
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth - this is how the virus enters the body
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective
• Wear a mask to help prevent spread of the disease
• Stay home if you are sick

Who should get the H1N1 vaccine?

• Persons between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old
• People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age
• People between 25 and 65 years old who have chronic medical conditions or compromised immune systems
• Pregnant women
• Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel

Your primary care physician or local health department will have information on the H1N1 vaccination. Further information is available at the Florida Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Questions may also be submitted via e-mail to: pandemiccommittee@jax.ufl.edu.

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