A Nurse Practitioner's View

With all the talk about H1N1 influenza, I think it;s important for folks to understand where the H1 and N1 come from. The "H" comes from the substance hemagglutinin and the "N" comes from neuraminidase . There have been identified influenza strains of the H and N types and this is how some influenza viruses are classified. The particular "swine" flu that has garnered so much attention is of the H1N1 type. A few years ago, the fear was of the avian type, H5N1. This past Spring, the Wall Street Journal Health Blog did a good job explaining some of the background regarding the naming of this particular strain of influenza. This may help us all understand the nomenclature and rationale behind what has become household names.

Undoubtedly, most are aware of the swine flu by now and the potential impact it has on pandemic fears. While cause for concern, it isn't cause for panic...yet. Know the symptoms of the flu. That is, remember that influenza is a respiratory illness. Typically, if one doesn't have a cough (usually non-productive), fever and body aches, then it is unlikely that it is classic influenza. Common sense precautions are in order, stay home if you are sick with mild symptoms, seek care if they worsen wash your hands frequently, especially after touching your nose & mouth. (Most people don't wash their hands properly if you can believe it. You should wet your hands with water, use soap and scrub for at least 30 seconds {sing "Happy Birthday" twice to yourself}; be sure to get your wrists and under jewelry. Phone your health care provider if you have specific questions. Also visit credible sites such as the CDC. Anti-viral medications exist for pre or post exposure to ...