H1N1 Flu Information

To Keep Our Patients Safe Union Hospital's Patient Visitation Policy Has Changed

• Visitors under the age of 18 will no longer be allowed in patient care areas.
• Limitations will be placed on the number of visitors a patient can have and who can visit. All patients admitted to the hospital will be asked at time of registration to designate two people who will be their assigned visitors during their hospital stay.
• Visiting hours of 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. will be strictly enforced.

What is H1N1 (swine flu)?

H1N1 (referred to as swine flu) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of H1N1 flu was underway.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of this virus?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

 

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
 

• 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 hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.