All you need to know about the H1N1 Virus ...

2009 H1N1 (referred to as "swine flu") is an influenza virus that causes illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009 and is different from the flu virus that is typically experienced in the US every flu season. In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared it a pandemic. A pandemic is a global disease outbreak.

In anticipation of concerns about this new virus and in response to questions about H1N1, Medicare, and Medicaid, CMS has and continues to develop information products including a comprehensive set of questions and answers with Original Medicare coverage and payment information, Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) information, and more (see downloads and links below). Check back frequently for updated information, including products for people with Medicare and people with Medicaid.

The HHS Pandemic Flu site below (see Related Links Outside CMS) also includes questions and answers about H1N1, including how the virus is spread and how to prevent it.

More Information about the Flu for People with Certain Medical Conditions [PDF]

H1N1 Flu Self-Evaluation     This is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional. This self-assessment information does not capture identifiable information in any manner.     Are you or a loved one sick and worried you might have H1N1 Flu?   During flu season this year, you might have to wait a long time in a crowded waiting room before you can see your doctor or be seen in an Emergency Room. Some people with the flu need to be seen right away. Other people can often take care of themselves at home just fine. This information may help you better understand the flu and what people like you should do. This information is not a substitute for your doctor's advice. The H1N1 Flu Self-Evaluation was developed in collaboration with the Emory University School of Medicine and is here to help you understand the flu symptoms you or your family member may be having so that you can make your own health decisions. This information is only for individuals ages 18 and above. You can find additional information on flu and young adults or children at www.flu.gov. Get started using the assessment Learn more from Flu.gov

H1N1 as layed out by CMS

All Health Conditions and the Flu

• If you have one of these health conditions -- asthma, diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart or kidney disease -- and you develop flu-like symptoms, contact your health care provider or seek medical care.
  
  
• Serious complications from the flu include pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, dehydration, or even death.
  
  
• If you have a chronic medical condition, during a flu outbreak you should:
  
  

  Get a written record of the kind of chronic disease(s) you have and the treatment you are receiving. Keep this information with you at all times.

  Prepare a typed or printed list of all medications usually taken and the times of day they are taken. Also include necessary medical supplies or equipment such as syringes, strips, lancets if you have diabetes, or oxygen if you have COPD

  Keep the name, phone number, and office address of your doctor or health care provider with you at all times.

  If you use medications for your condition, continue taking those medications even if you become sick with the flu, unless your doctor or health care provider says otherwise

  Be alert to changes in your breathing, especially if you have heart failure, congestive heart disease or COPD. Promptly report changes to your doctor or health care provider

  Inform family members or close friends of your medical condition.

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High Risk Groups Should Prioritize to Immunize

Listen to the Podcast “High Risk Groups Should Prioritize to Immunize” from CDC   Podcast.. Listen Live Podcast.. Listen Live Podcast.. Listen Live

If you have a chronic medical condition, do the following to prevent from getting sick:

Take time to get vaccinated. Get the Seasonal Flu Vaccine: The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the three most common flu viruses. The Seasonal Flu Vaccine can protect you from getting sick from these three viruses or it can make your illness milder if you get a flu virus that is related to those in the vaccine. Get the H1N1 (Swine) Flu Vaccine: Use our Flu Shot Locator to get vaccinated where you live.

Take everyday preventive actions. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way. Avoid close contact with sick people.

If you do get the flu:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze to keep from spreading flu viruses to others. 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.

Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100°F or 37.8°C) or signs of a fever (without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®)   . Read detailed information about how long to stay away from others.

Take antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them. Antiviral drugs may be especially important for people who are sick and have a health condition that places them at greater risk of flu complications. For maximum effectiveness, antiviral drugs should be taken as soon as possible after symptoms begin.