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The CF Foundation is closely monitoring the H1N1 flu situation. The following is important information for people with CF and their families.
If you or your child with CF have the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention: fast breathing or trouble breathing, not waking up or interacting, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness or confusion.
H1N1 Fast Facts
- The CF Foundation is disappointed with the slow distribution of the H1N1 vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that production of the H1N1 vaccine has been slower than expected. Distribution of the H1N1 flu vaccine is underway to all states.
- Based on information from the CDC, the CF Foundation and its Influenza Advisory Group have identified all people with CF and those who live in the same household as “high risk.” This means that people with CF and their household members should get the H1N1 vaccine as soon as possible.
- The fastest way to get the H1N1 vaccine may not be through your CF care center.
Every state is developing a vaccine delivery plan. The vaccine will be available in a combination of settings, such as vaccination clinics organized by local health departments; healthcare provider offices; schools; and other private settings, such as pharmacies and workplaces.
To find out where you can get the H1N1 vaccination:
- Call your primary care physician and ask if they are offering the H1N1 vaccine.
- Call your CF care center and ask if they are offering the H1N1 vaccine.
- Refer to the H1N1 flu map for state-specific information on H1N1 flu vaccination or find your State Health Department to get local information.
If you go to an influenza clinic for your vaccine, you may find it helpful to bring a letter from your CF care center or print this page from the CDC Web site, which lists people with CF as a priority group to receive the H1N1 vaccine.
- Certain groups of people, including those with CF, should not get the nasal spray seasonal or H1N1 vaccine.
- If you get a fever, call your doctor immediately – whether you have received the H1N1 vaccine or not. A fever is defined as 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius.
If your doctor thinks you have influenza, he may treat you with Tamiflu® to reduce the severity and duration of your infection.
- The best way to protect against H1N1 flu is by minimizing the spread of germs. You can do this by:
- Cleaning your hands often with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand gel.
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then cleaning your hands.
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Staying away from others if you are ill.
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Updated 11/18/09 |
