H1N1 Pandemic: Life Span Considerations

In March 2009, a child in Mexico was infected with novel influenza A (H1N1), otherwise known as swine flu. Otherwise healthy children in that small town came down with it shortly after, as well as others from other countries who had visited Mexico or been visited by someone from Mexico, as was the case in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the first 2 cases in April 2009 and has been working together with local health departments to do syndromic surveillance. In June 2009, the World Health Organization raised the pandemic alert to level 6. Pandemic H1N1, as it is now called, has infected otherwise healthy people younger than 25 years. Most patients present with fever, sore throat, and cough. Transmission is via droplets; therefore, appropriate precautions should be taken. Antiviral care is usually recommended for those who are hospitalized, and the virus has been found to be susceptible to oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). Hospitals should work with local health departments for confirmation of the flu and implement pandemic plans as necessary.