Important information for our members on the flu

Flu season is upon us. This site can help you stay informed on the seasonal and H1N1 flu so you can stay healthy and prevent the spread of flu. Use the links to the left to get answers to frequently asked questions on the seasonal and H1N1 flu, tips on how to avoid contracting the flu, and information on treating the flu. It also can serve as your source for the latest influenza information and updates.

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H1N1 Flu Update

Cases of H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) have been reported in many regions of the United States, including the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

The symptoms of H1N1 Flu are typical of those caused by seasonal flu. They include cough, runny/stuffy nose, fever, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and respiratory symptoms. Symptoms may be worse in people who have chronic health conditions. Like seasonal  influenza, H1N1 Flu can sometimes result in severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure), and occasional deaths have been reported in the past.

This particular strain of H1N1 Flu is treatable with the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza Diskhaler). UPMC Health Plan includes both of these medications in its drug formulary. If you get the flu, an antiviral drug can make your illness milder and help you feel better faster. It may also prevent serious flu complications. Antiviral drugs work best if started within 2 days of the time symptoms begin.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have determined that this H1N1 Flu is contagious and spreads from human to human. It is not yet known how easily this virus spreads. Most likely it is spread by coughing or sneezing and by touching your mouth, eye, or nose after touching a surface with flu viruses on it.

To help prevent yourself from getting the flu: first and most important, wash your hands often. Wash with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, you can use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizer.

In addition, get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods. Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid close contact with people who have flu symptoms; people who have H1N1 Flu may be contagious for 1 day before symptoms begin and up to 7 days after.

The PA Department of Health is making the H1N1 vaccine available to anyone who wants it. Visit www.h1n1inpa.com for vaccination clinics near you, or contact your primary care doctor to get the vaccine. If you would like assistance in finding a physician, you may call a UPMC Health Plan member advocate at 1-888-876-2756, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. TTY users, please call 1-800-361-2629.

The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are following the situation closely and are providing updates to the public. You can access the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov for additional information.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a comprehensive site for both H1N1 and seasonal flu. Visit www.flu.gov for more information.

UPMC will also provide updates as warranted. You can access the UPMC website at http://www.upmc.com/yourvisit/flu-info/Pages/default.aspx.

The PA Department of Health website is another source of information and can be accessed at www.h1n1inpa.com.

Sources: UPMC, CDC