H1N1 Update 4/5/2010

On Friday, the Georgia Department of Education sent out a request to Georgia's school superintendents asking them to remind parents that H1N1 has not gone away. Many health officials believe, as I stated in the last update, that a third wave may be starting in Georgia. The bottom line is that we do not need to let our guard down. There are still H1N1 vaccinations available and everyone is encouraged to "roll-up your sleeve" and do your part to prevent the spread of this disease. This includes getting a booster shot for children who require two shots.

H1N1 - Not The Time To Relax

It seems that much of the publicity and public concern over H1N1 has settled down now that spring is in the air. This is probably not a good thing. Remember that H1N1 first hit the US and Georgia in April of last year and the first round lasted through the end of the school year. We experienced round two in September. A third round may be on the way for this spring.

According to Georgia Public Health Officials all confirmed cases of the flu this year have been H1N1. In the most recent situation update from the CDC the number of influenza-like illnesses in the US has remained stable but in region 4, which includes Georgia, the number of influenza-like illnesses has been elevated. It is possible that Georgia may be experiencing a third wave of the flu.

It is very important to continue the prevention activities that have been promoted since the beginning of this event: Frequent and thorough hand washing, stay home when sick and get the immunization. There are plenty of immunizations still available and it is not too late to take it. I have also found a resource on the CDC website. It is a self-evaluation to help one determine whether or not to seek medical attention for their illness. I will be posting a link to this resource upon completion of this blog post.