By Dr. Samantha Ristimaki, BSc, ND of Balance Wellness Center

The H1N1 flu vaccine is a hot topic these days.  Both the US and Canada have followed the World Health Organization’s recommendation to vaccinate the public against this strain of virus.

Before you line up at the H1N1 clinic, you may want to educate yourself on what the virus is, what you can do to prevent yourself from getting it and what are the pros and cons to getting vaccinated. 

H1N1 is basically a different strain of the flu that has similar symptoms.  Like the flu, people generally suffer from symptoms including fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, disorientation, chills and fatigue for about a week.  It is typically that individuals with weakened immune systems are at risk of suffering from a more severe illness.  If you have difficulty breathing, sudden dizziness,confusion, severe or persistent nausea immediate medical attention is required. 

Who has a greater risk?

Patients with specific conditions: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, HIV, cardio pulmonary disease, immuno-suppression therapy, anemia or morbid obesity.

Children under the age of 5 are at some risk, under the age of 2 are at greater risk

Children under 18 who are on long term acetylsalicylic acid treatment (ASA)

Pregnant women: 2^nd trimester to 4 weeks postpartum

Persons living in remote areas with limited access to medical care

Elderly people with chronic health conditions

 What if I’m not at risk?

Take charge of your own health and get educated.  Learn what the pros and cons of the H1N1 vaccine and flu shot are and make an informed decision. 

We know that the flu is transmitted through the respiratory system and through little droplets that are released into the air or transmitted to surfaces that sick people touch.  Practice prevention.  

Practice Prevention

Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, exercise, eat well, and keep your stress levels in check.  If you get sick, stay home.  Your body needs rest to allow your immune system to fight off the infection.

I strive to teach my patients that regardless of their choices, boosting and supporting immune function is an essential part of staying healthy this flu season.   Check out this article on immune boosting foods.