What is 2009 H1N1 (swine flu)?
2009 H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of 2009 H1N1 flu was underway.(Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
The H1N1 vaccine is currently available for the public. Contact your nearest NextCare location to ensure their availability of the vaccine. A vaccine is also available to protect against seasonal influenza (Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention). Be sure to frequently wash your hands or use an alcohol based hand-sanitizer; refrain from touching your mouth, eyes or nose and stay away from those who may have been contaminated.

Can NextCare treat the H1N1 flu?
Certainly. Our board-certified physicians are available seven days a week to help you. Our physicians are able to evaluate viral illnesses and write anti-viral prescriptions when appropriate. NextCare Urgent Care is one of the only Urgent Care's in the nation that provides a conclusive H1N1 test.

Is 2009 H1N1 virus contagious?
Yes, the CDC has determined that 2009 H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.(Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

How does 2009 H1N1 virus spread?
Spread of 2009 H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. (Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus. (Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

Should you begin to feel any of the symptoms, please get to your nearest NextCare location to receive treatment!