Influenza (Seasonal and H1N1 Flu) Information

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by infuenza viruses.  It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.  Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at high risk for serious flu complications.  The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Douglas County Health Department  (DCHD) recommend that everyone over 6 months of age should get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the flu.

In 2009-2010, a new and very different flu virus (called 2009 H1N1) spread worldwide causing the first flu pandemic in more than 40 years.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects the 2009 H1N1 virus to cause illness again this upcoming season along with other seasonal flu viruses.  The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against 2009 H1N1 and two other influenza viruses.

Symptoms of Influenza (Flu) - Seasonal and H1N1 Flu

Seasonal Flu

All types of flu can cause:

• Fever
• Coughing and/or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headaches and/or body aches
• Chills
• Fatigue

H1N1 Flu

Same as season flu, but symptoms may be more severe.

• Fever
• Coughing and/or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headaches and/or body aches
• Chills
• Fatigue

In addition to the above symptoms, a number of H1N1 flu cases reported:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How to Prevent Catching and Spreading the Flu

• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Wash your hads often with soap and water, or use an alcohol based sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people
• Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees F)
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures
• Get vaccinated.  Yearly flu vaccination is the best way to prevent getting the flu.

Current Douglas County Flu Activity and Surveillance

• Current Flu Activity Surveillance (Graphs)
  • Laboratory Confirmed Cases by MMWR Week, 2011 - 2012 Flu Season
  • Laboratory Confirmed Cases by MMWR Week, 2007 - 2012
  • Laboratory Confirmed Cases by Influenza Season, 2001 - 2012
  • Laboratory Confirmed Cases by Month, 2003 - 2012
  • Percentage of Provider Visits for Influenza-like Illness - By Region
  • School Absenteeism in Douglas County and Class Level, 2011 - 2012
  • School Absenteeism in Douglas County by MMWR Week, 2007 - 2012 School Years

Note: Electronic reporting was completely implemented for OPS schools for 2011-12. Analysis of 2010-11 electronic reporting and concurrent manual reporting, indicated that overall reported absences are approximately 1.7% higher with electronic reporting. Beginning with the 9/21/2011 report, the electronic report from OPS has been rewritten to report only those students who are reported to be ill that day. Previously it reported students who were called out for medical appointments as well. The report now seems more accurate and on par with what would be expected.

If you need assistance viewing these documents, please contact the Health Department at (402) 444-7214.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Web Pages:

• Influenza Information Web Page 
• Health Alert Network Messages Archive

Information for Individuals and Families

• Seasonal and Novel H1N1 Flu: A Guide for Parents (Tri-fold brochure)
• Grip Estancional y Novel H1N1: Guia para Padres de Familia (folleto de tres dobles)
• Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
• Workplace Cleaning Guidance
• Managing Your Flu Symptoms
• Grupos con alto riesgo de la grip porcina

Information for Businesses

• H1N1 Flu Resources for Businesses and Employers
• Frequently Asked Questions for Employers about H1N1 Flu

Information for Health Care Providers

• Flow Chart to determine number of 2011-2012 seasonal influenza vaccine doses recommended for children
• Recommended Influenza Vaccines for the U.S. 2011-2012 Season
• ACIP Recommendation for Use of CSL Influenza Vaccine
• CDC Seasonal Influenza Website
• MMWR Prevention and Control of Influenza with Vaccines 2011

Disinfectants Registered for use Against Influenza A viruses, Including 2009 H1N1 Flu

• Antimicrobial Products Registered for Use Against the H1N1 Flu and Other Influenza A Viruses on Hard Surfaces

Health Education Resources

• Cover your Cough Poster (8-1/2 x 11")
• Cubra su Tos Poster (Spanish Version - 8-1/2 x 11")
• Cover your Cough Poster (11 x 17")
• Cubra su Tos Poster (Spanish Version - 11 x 17")