Traverse City Record-Eagle

Grand Traverse County

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  • Bill O'Brien

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October 28, 2009

About the H1N1 virus and vaccine

About the virus

People who are suspected to have the H1N1 influenza strain known as swine flu often will have a fever and chills, body aches, a cough, runny nose and sore throat.

Patients can treat themselves at home by resting, drinking fluids and taking over-the-counter medications, including Tylenol. Antiviral medications are available, but local physicians said they typically only alleviate symptoms within the first 48 hours.

Children who experience a change in breathing or skin color, severe or persistent vomiting, irritability, returning or worsening symptoms or loss of alertness should contact a medical professional.

Adults should do the same if they notice shortness of breath, chest or abdomen discomfort, dizziness or confusion, severe or persistent vomiting or returning or worsening symptoms.

Source: Munson Medical Center

About the vaccine

The first wave of Grand Traverse County swine flu inoculation clinics in local schools is delayed because of a vaccine shortage.

Immunizations planned Tuesday through Thursday will be rescheduled for students from Grand Traverse Academy, Woodland School, Traverse City College Preparatory Academy, Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools, Traverse City Christian Schools, Trinity Lutheran School, Traverse Bay Christian School, Traverse Bay Mennonite School, Traverse City Seventh-day Adventist School and Montessori Children's House.

Fewer than 100 flu shots and several hundred nasal spray doses remain after a community flu clinic on Sunday, said Dr. Michael Collins, medical director for the Grand Traverse and Benzie-Leelanau health departments.

He said he expects more vaccine to arrive by Friday, in which case vaccine clinics should resume.

Some of the remaining spray doses likely will be given to local health care providers to better reach populations considered high-risk for flu complications, Collins said.

-- Lindsay VanHulle

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