What the CFF recommends

CF Foundation Provides Guidance on Seasonal and H1N1 Influenza

September 22, 2009

The CF Foundation is closely monitoring the seasonal and H1N1 (swine) flu situation.

The Foundation recommends that all people with cystic fibrosis and individuals living with them follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on both seasonal and H1N1 flu prevention and vaccination.

Based on the CDC’s recommendations, the Foundation urges everyone with CF and those who live in the same household to:

1. Get the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible.
2. Get the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available in October.
3. Minimize the spread of germs by:
   • Washing your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand gel.
   • Using a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then washing your hands.
   • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth since germs are spread that way.
   • Staying away from others if you are ill.
4. Watch for symptoms of the flu and if they appear, call your doctor. Symptoms include:
   • Body aches and headache
   • Fatigue
   • Fever and chills
   • Increased cough
   • Sore throat

Seasonal and H1N1 Flu Vaccines

The seasonal flu vaccine is an important step in protecting against seasonal flu. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications, such a people with CF.

The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you against the H1N1 flu.

A new vaccine against H1N1 flu is being developed. The CDC states that the vaccine will be available in October.

People at greatest risk for H1N1 flu – such as those with CF – should receive the H1N1 vaccine as soon as it is available.

Vaccinations for people with CF are available at CF care centers. Household members of people with CF also should receive the seasonal and the H1N1 flu vaccinations. You can find the closest place to receive the flu vaccine from the American Lung Association’s Flu Clinic Locator Web site.

The best way to protect against seasonal and H1N1 flu is by practicing good infection control. For more information on infection control or vaccinations, talk to your CF doctor.