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. Federal health officials caution that the H1N1 Flu may become more severe in the fall and winter. The Santa Rosa County Health Department encourages vaccination as the best defense against the flu.

Physician's Corner

H1N1 Symptoms:

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.

Click the picture to watch 30 second video

about H1N1.

Click the picture to watch more videos from the Florida Health Department.

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 for

Community Groups

Who can receive the H1N1 vaccine?
 

The Santa Rosa County Health Department is now offering the H1N1 Flu vaccine to all individuals over the age of six months at all three clinic locations on a walk-in basis only.

When can I receive the H1N1 vaccine?

As of March 1st, the Santa Rosa County Health Department is no longer offering expanded hours of operation to receive the H1N1 vaccine.  The vaccine is still available free of charge during normal clinic hours:

Milton Office (850) 983-5200

Monday - Wed.: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Midway Office (850) 934-4074

Tuesday: 8 - 11:30 a.m., 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Jay Office (850) 675-4211

Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

More H1N1 Information
 

For more information about H1N1, please visit these websites: