Tribal H1N1/Flu Season Updates

H1N1 Frequently Asked Questions

Is the H1N1 pandemic over?

We do not know. Any kind of flu outbreak can be unpredictable. Right now, there is no H1N1 disease in the Billings Area Indian Health Service and decreasing disease nationwide. There is, however, new H1N1 disease in West Africa and the southern hemisphere is just starting its fall season. With global travel, it is possible that H1N1 could reappear in the US this spring and summer. We are used to normally seeing flu in Montana and Wyoming during fall and winter months but remember H1N1 first appeared here in April last year and then reappeared in August. It certainly is possible that H1N1 could reappear this spring and summer.

Is the H1N1 vaccine I got last fall still good?

Yes flu vaccine protection lasts for a year.

Will I need a separate H1N1 vaccine next fall?

The H1N1 virus strain is being incorporated into the annual seasonal flu vaccine so you will only need to get the regular seasonal flu vaccine this fall. The seasonal flu vaccine normally contains about three different virus strains that scientists believe will be circulating in the coming year. Last year, H1N1 showed up suddenly and too late to be added to the seasonal flu. This year there will be plenty of time for H1N1 to be added to the seasonal flu vaccine.

Should I still get an H1N1 vaccine if I have not done so yet?

Yes so that you can be protected against H1N1 in case it reappears between now and next fall when the new seasonal flu vaccine is available.

For More Information Contact: Folo Akintan at fakintan@mtwytlc.com