With well over 100 reported cases in New York State, H1N1 flu – commonly referred to as “swine flu” – remains a significant concern for health officials, public schools and families. While H1N1 is a cause for concern, there is no reason to panic. Taking the necessary precautions and contacting your doctor if you believe you may have H1N1 will go a long way toward mitigating its effects.

This Web site contains important information about the H1N1 virus, how it is spread, and what to do if you become infected. A vaccine to protect against H1N1 is expected to be available this fall. For more information on the H1N1 vaccine, visit
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/.

Up-to-date information regarding H1N1, including travel warnings and alerts, can be found at the CDC Web site, www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, or the NYS Department of Health Web site,
www.nyhealth.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/h1n1/.

There are everyday actions that you can take to help prevent the spread of germs that cause influenza, such as washing your hands often and staying home if you are not feeling well. For more information on what to do about the flu, visit www.flu.gov/.

Sincerely,

Speaker Sheldon Silver

P.S. Also take time to check out the 2009 national H1N1 public service announcement winner – produced by New Yorker Dr. John Clark.