H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) Update
(last updated Oct. 16)
Inova Health System is prepared to address the issues related to all communicable infectious diseases – including the novel H1N1 virus, commonly known as swine flu. We have the tools and medicines needed to protect our staff and our patients during such events.
Inova also is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal, regional, state and local public-health agencies to coordinate efforts and ensure that we have the most up-to-date information and response guidelines. Check out the links below for the latest consumer-focused information on the seasonal flu and H1N1 virus.
- Visit Flu.gov, the U.S. government site for info on H1N1, avian and pandemic flu, including an H1N1 Flu Self-Evaluation tool and a page covering Flu Myths and Facts.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Get info on where to find H1N1 vaccine in the National Capital Region
- Get answers to your questions
- Reduce your risk
- Information for pregnant women
- Information for breastfeeding women
- School and childcare guidance
- Guidance for businesses and employers
- International information from the World Health Organization (WHO)
You might also want to contact your local health department:
- Virginia Department of Health: 1-877-ASK-VDH3 (PHIC@vdh.virginia.gov)
- City of Alexandria: 703-838-4400
- Arlington County: 703-228-1300
- Fairfax County: 703-246-2411
- Loudoun County: 703-777-0234
- Prince William County: 703-792-6300 (Manassas); 703-792-7300 (Woodbridge)
If you are exhibiting symptoms of the H1N1 virus, contact your primary-care physician as soon as possible. If you don't have a primary-care physician, you can use the Find a Doctor tool on the right side of this page.
You should seek immediate medical attention for children who exhibit the following symptoms:
- Trouble breathing, or hyperventilation
- Skin color looks blue
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Not interacting with others or waking up
- Excessive irritability
- Flu-like symptoms that improve, but return with fever and cough worse than before
- Fever and rash
Seek immediate medical attention for adults who exhibit the following symptoms:
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
- Pain or pressure in the chest, abdomen
- Sudden dizziness or severe headache
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
If you feel ill but are not experiencing the symptoms above, contact your primary-care physician. If you don't have a primary-care physician, you can use the Find a Doctor tool on the right side of this page.
To reduce the risks to you and others, keep the following guidelines in mind:
- If you feel sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others, to keep from infecting them.
- If you feel you need medical attention, call ahead first so your healthcare providers can take necessary infection-control measures.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, to prevent the spread of germs.
