Updated November 30, 2009:
NEW! Ridgeview Clinics now has a supply of H1N1 Novel Influenza vaccination available to those in the following priority groups:
- Ages six months through 24 years
- Ages 25 through 64 years with a chronic medical condition that puts them at higher risk of medical complications from influenza
- Pregnant women
- Health care providers or emergency medical services personnel
- People who live with or care for children younger than six months of age
If you would like more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact your Ridgeview Clinic.
H1N1 Information
The following recommendations support news from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and will be updated as new information is available. These recommendations should not be considered medical advice, however; be sure to consult your primary care provider with specific questions or concerns.
Symptoms
Similar to seasonal influenza, H1N1 symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose and, in some instances, vomiting and diarrhea.
Prevention
H1N1 likely spreads similarly to other respiratory infections—from one person to the next—such as when a person coughs or sneezes, or through contact with an object containing the germs and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. To avoid spreading an infection:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes.
- Avoid contact with people who are ill.
- Stay home if you do not feel well.
Treatment
Most people who get H1N1 influenza will likely recover without requiring acute medical care. In instances where patients do become very ill or are at high risk for flu complications, doctors can prescribe antiviral drugs.
If you have flu-like symptoms and/or have been in close contact with someone who has a confirmed case of H1N1 influenza, call your primary care provider, who will determine whether or not you should be tested and if treatment is necessary. Click here for a list of Ridgeview Clinics locations.
Note: Ridgeview recommends that you call prior to coming into a clinic so that you can be given appropriate instructions to help reduce possible spread of the illness in a public place (such as a clinic waiting room).
Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
Nationally, there is a limited supply of seasonal influenza vaccine; Ridgeview Medical Center is working closely with suppliers to obtain additional quantities. The Ridgeview Web site will be updated when more seasonal influenza vaccine is available.
To Learn More...
Please check back to this Web site for updated information. Additionally, the following resources will have the latest information about H1N1 Novel Influenza: