Seniors, Caregivers Have Questions About 2009-10 Flu Season

Joyce Remy, IlluminAge Communication Partners

Influenza (the "flu") can be dangerous for seniors. But when flu-like symptoms strike, seniors and family caregivers are often confused: is it the flu? Or just a common cold? Should you get a flu shot? What about the 2009 H1N1 ("swine") flu? Here are some things to know as we enter this year's flu season.

Is it a cold, the flu or "swine flu"?

It's not always easy to tell when someone has the flu! Cold and flu symptoms can be similar, with runny nose, scratchy throat, sneezing and coughing. But flu symptoms are more severe. The flu usually begins with fever, chills, headache and aching muscles. The accompanying sense of fatigue may last for days or even weeks.

What about H1N1 ("swine") flu?

So far, people who have contracted the 2009 H1N1 flu (popularly called "swine flu") are experiencing very similar symptoms to those of seasonal flu (the "regular" flu that spreads across the globe every year). However, H1N1 flu may also cause vomiting and diarrhea, which are uncommon with seasonal flu. (Read on to find out more about H1N1 flu.)

Seasonal flu can be dangerous for seniors.

Though the seasonal flu can be pretty miserable for anyone, it can be a serious—even life-threatening—illness for older adults. Complications include secondary infections, such as sinus and ear infections, bronchitis or pneumonia, and damage to liver or kidneys. 60% of flu-related hospitalizations and 90% of flu-related deaths occur in people over 65.

How should seniors, family caregivers protect against the flu?

Get your seasonal flu shot. Unlike most immunizations, which protect over several years, the flu vaccine is only good for one year. This is because the vaccine must target a particular strain of flu every season. The 2009 seasonal flu vaccine is already available, and is recommended for almost everyone—especially for people who are over 65, and those with chronic diseases or a weakened immune system. People who live in or work in a healthcare or senior living facility should also get the vaccine.

Don't forget: Medicare covers the annual seasonal flu shot for seniors. Many senior centers are offering the flu shot right now. Check with your local center for a schedule.

Prevent the spread of flu germs. The viruses that cause cold and flu are spread through the air or through direct hand contact. So the most effective way to prevent the spread of these viruses is hand washing. Wash the hands often in soap and water, and avoid putting fingers to the mouth, nose or eyes. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. Avoid sharing drinking glasses, use paper towels and paper cups, and use tissues instead of a cloth handkerchief. 

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If a friend or relative—especially a small child—is showing signs of illness, ask that they visit at a later time. What if you are caring for a person with the flu at home? Follow the above sanitation steps. Take extra precautions while disposing of used tissues. And wash used linens with hot water, tumbling dry on the "hot" setting.

First aid if you or a loved one gets the flu

While no drugs can cure a cold or the flu, antiviral drugs (such as Tamiflu ®) may lessen the effects. The person's doctor may suggest decongestants, antihistamines, pain relievers or cough syrups. (Note: check with your healthcare provider before taking aspirin or aspirin-containing products.) Drink plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest until the fever has passed. Salt-water gargles may relieve sore throat, and hot drinks, too, are soothing. 

Flu symptoms: when are they serious?

Most people recover from the flu without complications. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says to seek medical attention if seniors are experiencing:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting.

FAQs About 2009 H1N1 ("Swine") Flu

Q: What is 2009 H1N1 flu? Formerly called "swine flu," 2009 H1N1 is a new influenza virus that first appeared in April of 2009. It was called "swine flu" because it is similar to viruses that occur in pigs. H1N1 has continued to spread since spring 2009.

Q: What's the best way to prevent the spread of H1N1?  Follow the same preventive measures as for seasonal flu (see above). People who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should limit contact with others for at least a week, and should stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever has passed.

Q: Is there a vaccine for 2009 H1N1 flu?  A vaccine for H1N1 flu is projected as of this writing to be available during the fall. To find out the current availability of the vaccine, who should get it, and when, contact your healthcare provider or see the web resources at the bottom of this page.

Q: Is it true that seniors are not top priority for the H1N1 vaccine? True. Interestingly, though people over 65 are at greatest risk of contracting seasonal flu, they are at lower risk of getting 2009 H1N1. This is because people born before 1957 are more likely to have immunity from previous flu strains that resembled H1N1. But seniors are still at risk for serious complications, especially if they have chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease. Your healthcare provider can tell you more. And to repeat: most seniors should receive the seasonal flu vaccination as soon as possible. 

Q: What about family caregivers? Family caregivers should receive the seasonal flu vaccine right away, and the H1N1 vaccine when it is available. Preventing the flu helps family caregivers and health care workers alike stay healthy so they can continue to provide care and not spread the virus.

Q: How worried should I be?  The CDC reports that so far, most people who have become ill with 2009 H1N1 have recovered without needing medical attention. Severe cases and deaths have occurred, but not at a greater rate than with the regular ("seasonal") flu. The CDC cautions against panic…and suggests that the best thing to do is to turn fear into action and be prepared.

Q: What if H1N1 becomes a "pandemic"?  A widespread flu outbreak could possibly cause a disruption in areas such as healthcare services and public transportation. Seniors and family caregivers are advised to prepare for widespread flu just as they would for other emergencies. For example, keep on hand a two-week supply of food and prescription medication.

Find the Latest Information on 2009 H1N1 Flu

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now has two websites where consumers and healthcare professionals can keep up-to-date about seasonal flu (www.flu.gov) and the 2009 H1N1 flu (www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu). The CDC website also recently posted detailed information about why seniors are not high priority for the H1N1 vaccine.

On the Public Health-Seattle & King County website, you can learn about season and H1N1 flu and how to protect yourself and your family.

The information in this article is not meant to replace the advice of your doctor. Contact your healthcare provider for information on flu and flu immunization.

Photos 2,3: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)