H1N1 (Swine Flu)
What is H1N1?
H1N1 Novel Influenza (Swine Flu) was first discovered in the United States in April of 2009.
There are confirmed cases of H1N1 Flu throughout Santa Rosa County. Most forms of influenza currently
being diagnosed are the H1N1 Flu although the Seasonal Flu is starting to pop up as well. The
majority of people who are sick with the flu recover without requiring medical treatment. However,
some people have been hospitalized and have died from infection with this virus. The Santa Rosa
County Health Department encourages vaccination as the best defense against the flu.
H1N1 Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Sore Throat
- Muscle Aches
- Chills
- Coughing
- Sneezing
How do I know if I have H1N1?
Because the symptoms for H1N1 are very similar to the seasonal flu, it is very difficult to know whether you have H1N1 or the seasonal flu. You may have all or some of the symptoms for H1N1 but the only way to know for sure is to get tested for H1N1 by your physician.
Prevention
The best prevention is to stay home if you are sick!
- Wash your hands
- Cover your cough
- Stay home until 24 hours after your symptoms are gone without the help of fever-reducing medicine.
How does H1N1 Spread?
H1N1 Flu is spread much like the seasonal flu - by droplets that are expelled into
the air when an infected person talks, sneezes, or coughs. These droplets then fall to
environmental surfaces such as a desk or countertop. Masks, hand sanitizer, tissues,
cleaning surfaces, and maintaining a distance of 3-6 feet from people around you can help
reduce infection rates.
Guidance from the Center for Disease Control for Community Groups
Who can receive the H1N1 vaccine?
The H1N1 vaccine is now included in the seasonal flu vaccines and is available at the Santa Rosa County Health Department. Please consult your physician to make sure the vaccine is safe for you.
When can I receive the H1N1 vaccine?
The Santa Rosa County Health Department is no longer offering the H1N1 vaccine as a separate vaccine. The H1N1 vaccine is now included in the seasonal flu shot. The seasonal flue shot is $20 for adults. The Vaccines for Children program offers free vaccines for children age 6 months - 18 years when available. Please call for availability.
Milton Office (850) 983-5200
Monday - Wed.: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Midway Office (850) 934-4074
Tuesday: 8 - 11:30 am 1:30 - 3:30 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Jay Office (850) 675-4211
Wednesday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
More H1N1 Information
For more information about H1N1, please visit these websites: