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Owensboro Health Flu Center

H1N1 and seasonal flu information

At Owensboro Health, we understand that the most important tool in preventing and containing the spread of the flu virus, including H1N1, is reliable and accurate information. As a regional healthcare leader, we are committed to providing information you can trust. You can count on Owensboro Health to be prepared for flu outbreaks or any health-related issue that arises in our community.

H1N1 Flu

What is H1N1?

Novel H1N1 is an influenza type A virus that causes illness in humans. This new virus, previously referred to as the swine flu, is similar to the virus that normally occurs in pigs. There has been an increase in novel H1N1 activity in our region. 

What are the symptoms?

 The signs of H1N1 flu in people are no different from those of common flu viruses.

  • Fever (100° or higher)
  • Cough
  • Body Aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Runny/stuffy nose
  • Vomiting and diarrhea may also occur 

What should I do if I become sick?

If you have flu symptoms, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading disease. Return to work only after you are fever-free for 24 hours (without taking fever-reducing medications).

Cover coughs and sneezes. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently--or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Overall, cases of H1N1 Flu are relatively mild. Treatment includes staying home while you are sick, getting plenty of rest and drinking large amounts of fluids (including water, broth, sports drinks or electrolyte beverages for infants).

Individuals who are not at high risk for complications or do not have severe flu that requires hospitialization generally do not need antiviral (prescription) medications to treat or prevent the flu.

When should I seek medical attention?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some people are at a higher risk for developing flu complications and should ask their healthcare provider about treatment options. Who is at the highest risk? The CDC recommends that emergency room visits should only be used by people with severe symptoms.

Questions about your symptoms? Call the Kentucky H1N1 Hotline to speak with a nurse, 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (CST)

The toll-free number is 1-877-843-7727.

Seasonal Flu

What is the flu?

The flu is a contagious infection of the lungs, nose and throat caused by the influenza virus. Influenza A usually is most prevalent in early winter and early spring, while influenza B tends to appear throughout the year.

Owensboro Health Is Prepared

As your regional healthcare provider, Owensboro Health wants to keep you healthy. While treatment from a healthcare provider is not necessary to recover from most seasonal or H1N1 flu viruses, Owensboro Health remains continually prepared to provide care at our clinics and hospital should the need arise.

We talk with Green River District Health Department frequently to coordinate efforts and keep abreast of the most recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control. We also have response plans in place to ensure adequate staffing and supplies to provide care should the number of patients with flu symptoms increase.

While the level of flu virus in our region remains relatively low, we encourage you to follow these recommendations  to protect you and your family from becoming ill.

Questions about your symptoms? Call the Kentucky H1N1 Hotline to speak with a nurse, 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (CST)

The toll-free number is 1-877-843-7727.

Resources

Quizzes and Tools

Flu Quiz

Each year, one in five Americans contract the flu. Take our online quiz and stay a step ahead of the flu bug.

Handwashing-Germ Prevention Calculator 

How many seconds should you wash your hands? Get 'the dirt' on handwashing with our online germ calculator!