H1N1 Flu
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Frequently Asked Questions — April 27, 2009
- What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?
- How serious is the H1N1 flu?
- How do you catch H1N1 flu?
- How long can an infected person spread the H1N1 flu to others?
- What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
- Should I be wearing a face mask to keep from getting sick?
- What should I do if I get sick?
- I waived coverage in the University Health Plan? Can I still get treatment there?
- What should I do if I am in another country and feel sick with the flu?
What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to the symptoms of regular and seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the H1N1 Flu.
How serious is H1N1 flu?
Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu in can vary in severity from mild to severe. Experts at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are not sure how severe the H1N1 flu virus will be in the general population this coming flu season, which generally runs from October through April.
How do you catch H1N1 flu?
The influenza virus is spread by contact with the virus in respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, kissing, sharing eating utensils, etc. with an infected person.
The virus can also live on surfaces such as doornobs, furniture, clothing, or bedding for up to eight hours.
How long can an infected person spread H1N1 flu to others?
People infected with seasonal and novel H1N1 flu shed virus and may be able to infect others from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after. This can be longer in some people, especially children and people with weakened immune systems and in people infected with the new H1N1 virus.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. The virus can spread this way.
Should I be wearing a face mask to keep from getting sick?
It is not necessary for the general public to use face masks. If you have flu symptoms, however, and go in to see a doctor, you may be asked to wear a mask to keep you from spreading any virus when you cough or sneeze.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you have symptoms of the flu (fever, cough, muscle aches) you should call University Health Services flu line at 1-866-924 (YALE) 9253 or your primary care provider.
I waived coverage in the University Health Plan? Can I still get treatment there?
Yes, students can receive treatment regardless of their hospitalization insurance.
What should I do if I am in another country and feel sick with the flu?
YUHS has a toll free number that can be used when calling from many countries: 877-YHP-CARE (877-947-2273). You should also carry your MEDEX when you are travelling internationally www.yale.edu/finance/controller/
riskman/programs/medex.html.
