Novel H1N1 influenza continues to be seen in Kentucky throughout the summer.

Novel H1N1 influenza virulence is comparable to seasonal influenza but older age groups (>60) are less likely to be affected or hospitalized.

- Definitive testing (beyond in-office rapid test) is requested by the Kentucky Division of Laboratory Services only for individuals with acute febrile respiratory illness in the following groups:

• Pregnant women
• Hospitalized patients
• Institutionalized patients (where previous cases have not been identified)

- Treatment  

• Consider antiviral treatment only if patient has severe illness in order to reduce the potential for development of antiviral resistance
• The majority of persons with H1N1 influenza will NOT require treatment with antiviral medication.

- Prevention

• People with influenza-like illness should remain at home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100° F [37.8°C]), or signs of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
• Proper hand washing
• Coughing in sleeve or elbow
• Avoiding contact with sick people
• Antiviral chemoprophylaxis for exposed persons who are at high risk of severe consequences
• Influenza vaccination - If your clinic or facility is interested in receiving and administering novel H1N1 vaccine under a provider agreement with KDPH, please register your interest at https://khelps.chfs.ky.gov.