» H1N1

H1N1 . . . One Year Later

Emilee — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 20:39:19 +0000

This week marks the first anniversary of the identification of the H1N1 virus,or Swine Flu, that first became an epidemic across the United States before quickly spreading into a full-blown global outbreak. The most recent studies state that 14,286 people around the world lost their lives to H1N1 during 2009-2010. Although the premature deaths of so many people is incredibly tragic, the United States government has been able to take advantage of our actions over the last year in order to assess our current ability to combat threats–both biological and man-made.

According to a press release from the USDHH Preparedness and Response, our goal is to supplement our vaccination technology in order to research, develop, and distribute more quickly and efficiently. This will allow the USDHH to supply life-saving vaccines to sick populations more quickly and effectively. As expressed by Sec. Kathleen Sebelius, a crucial element in this will be identifying how our response teams would respond to both known threats and unknown threats that may arise.

In responding to H1N1, as many of you are surely aware, vaccines where in short supply. Worse yet, some vaccines did little or nothing to combat the ever-changing virus. It is good to know that USDHH is aware of the mistakes that were made and can view this scenario as a learning opportunity so that if, heaven forbid, there is a “next time” we’ll be ready.

Check out the entire press release at flu.gov.

H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccinations

Emilee — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:39:13 +0000

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has strongly recommended that ALL persons, 6 months or older, receive a flu vaccine for the 2010-2011 flu season. The swine flu has hit the 5-17 year-old population especially hard. Those hospitalized with the disease generally had an underlying illness, like asthma, to weaken their immune system and allow them to be more susceptible to the virus.

As of mid February, 126 million doses of the vaccine had been ordered by states, with health departments targeting at-risk groups for treatment.

If you are pregnant, over 50 years of age, or the parent of small children–get yourself (and your children over 6 months) vaccinated!

View the CDC’s press release.

H1N1 and Native Americans

Emilee — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 23:43:15 +0000

Thanks to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, we are able to inform you of this important announcement concerning the H1N1 (swine flu) virus and its effects on the American Indian and Native Alaskan population–which have been hit particularly hard by the disease. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have found these native populations to be four times more likely to die from the H1N1 virus.

Wes Studi, the American Indian actor pictured below, is helping to get the word out. Take Wes’ advice and get your family vaccinated. Also, please note that children 9 years of age and younger will need TWO doses of the flu vaccine.

"The best way to protect yourself, your family and your community is to get vaccinated against seasonal and H1N1 flu." -Wes Studi, quote for HHS

Click HERE to find out where you can locate the vaccine.

Photo Credit: www.aaanativearts.com

Swine Flu Rap

Emilee — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:10:38 +0000

We came across this on a health department website and we couldn’t resist sharing. Sure he lays down some sick rhymes but the content is good too. Enjoy.