Important Information about the H1N1 Influenza

DOH announced that the shot version of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza vaccine has arrived in Hawai`i. Hawai`i was allocated 146,500 doses of injectable MIV (monovalent inactivated vaccine) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The influenza nasal spray (LAIV) version of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine began arriving in Hawai`i on Oct. 5, 2009 and providers are continuing to administer this dosage to priority groups as defined by the CDC. The nasal spray vaccine can only be administered to children and adults ages 2 years to 49 years of age with no underlying medical conditions.  The nasal spray vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women.

"The department is directing inactivated vaccine supplies to providers who serve priority groups which include healthcare workers, EMS and first responders involved in direct patient care, along with those at higher risk for developing serious complications from the 2009 H1N1 flu," said Health Director Chiyome Fukino, M.D.

In accordance with CDC guidelines, the DOH will give first priority to the following high-risk groups for H1N1 vaccination:

• Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient contact;
• Pregnant women;
• Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than age 6 months;
• All people from age 6 months through 24 years; and,
• Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza

DOH has a mechanism already in place to vaccinate students from K - 8th grades for seasonal flu and the most efficient way for the state to expedite the school vaccination for 2009 H1N1 influenza is to use the same system already in place. 332 schools statewide have signed up to participate in the H1N1 vaccination clinic.

High school students (9-12 grades) are eligible to receive H1N1 vaccination through their medical provider or a participating Community Health Center with a referral from their medical provider if their physician is not a participating H1N1 provider.

College students may contact their medical provider or a participating H1N1 Community Vaccinator through 2-1-1 or via the Department of Health website www.flu.hawaii.gov.

Symptoms and Advice

DOH is advising residents with a temperature of 100 degrees or more, and a cough or sore throat, to stay home from work or school for seven days or until the fever subsides for 24 hours without having to take tylenol or any temperature-lowering agent.

Symptoms of the virus in humans are similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza and include: fever greater than 100 degrees, headache, body aches, coughing, sore throat, respiratory congestion, and additionally in some cases, diarrhea and vomiting.

In keeping with the CDC travel advisory, anyone planning travel to Mexico or areas of the U.S. with swine influenza cases are advised to take the following precautionary measures:

While in areas with confirmed cases:

• Avoid close contact (< 6 feet) with persons who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Wash hands often, or use alcohol-containing hand sanitizer gel.

Upon return from travel to affected areas:

• Monitor self and travel companions for symptoms of fever and sore throat, cough, or trouble breathing.
• If symptoms of illness develop within 7 days of travel return, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
• Be sure to tell your healthcare provider your symptoms, where and when you traveled, and whether you had close contact with any sick persons or animals.
• Ask your provider about testing for influenza.
• Stay home from work, school, group gatherings, and public places for 7 days or until you are feeling completely well to avoid making others ill.  You can refer to the DOH website at or the CDC website for helpful advice for home management of your symptoms.

Persons who are well can do many things now to stay healthy:

• 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid contact with sick people.