Swine Flu Update

If you're a new follower of Corporate Wellness Insights, you may not have seen our previous blogs on H1N1 (swine flu). If you missed them, catch up here, here, and here. For the very latest information on the swine flu outbreak and the vaccine, Newsweek published a great overview last week.

A few points from the Newsweek article:

The CDC is recommending flu vaccinations for people at high risk of complications:

• Health care and emergency workers
• Pregnant women
• Children and young adults, from 6 months to 24 years old
• Parents and caretakers of babies under 6 months old
• Adults ages 25to 64 with certain medical conditions

Two shots are necessary for full immunity to H1N1. [Update: Researchers believe only one shot will be necessary.]

If you're at risk, it's important to get the regular seasonal flu shot in addition to the H1N1 vaccine.

If you're allergic to eggs, avoid the flu vaccine and see your doctor immediately if you develop flu symptoms. Antiviral medications can reduce the duration of the flu.

Even if you don't receive the vaccine, there are common-sense things you can do to protect yourself and others. Wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and stay home if you're sick. Don't infect your unsuspecting coworkers!