H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Information
STATEMENT FROM JOHNS HOPKINS USA ABOUT H1N1 (SWINE) INFLUENZA SAFETY
As always, Johns Hopkins USA’s first priority is the safety and care of its patients, visitors and staff. Experts and officials at Johns Hopkins Medicine are working closely with federal, state and local public health offices during this rapidly changing situation.
If You Have an Upcoming Trip to Johns Hopkins
There is no need to cancel your appointments or your trip at this time. The Centers for Disease Control has not advised any restriction of domestic travel.
However, we do ask that until further notice, you limit your travel companions to only those who are absolutely essential and who are not experiencing any flu-like symptoms.
If you begin to experience influenza-like symptoms, it is recommended that you postpone travel and seek local medical attention if you are severely ill (such as having trouble breathing). Flu-like symptoms may include fever (greater than 100°F) plus any of the following:
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Some people have reported vomiting and diarrhea associated with H1N1 flu
What to Expect While You Are at Johns Hopkins
As a precaution to protect our patients, visitors and staff, caregivers will be screening patients coming to our outpatient center, clinics and Emergency Department, and all new admissions, for signs and symptoms of influenza-like illness.
We’ll do everything possible to conduct the screening with a minimum of inconvenience and we will take all appropriate precautions to prevent transmission of illness to other patients, visitors and our health care team.
Our emergency response team and infectious disease experts are monitoring the situation closely, and they are ready to add precautions if and when needed.
Important Facts
To prevent the spread of H1N1:
- Avoid contact with ill persons.
- When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve (if you do not have a tissue). Throw used tissues in a trash can.
- After you cough or sneeze, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
If you think you are ill with flu, avoid close contact with others as much as possible. Seek medical care if you are severely ill (such as having trouble breathing). There are antiviral medications for prevention and treatment of H1N1 that a doctor can prescribe. Do not go to work, school, or travel while ill.
H1N1 influenza is a respiratory-borne illness and cannot be contracted from eating pork or pork products. It is always recommended to cook pork thoroughly to avoid food-borne illnesses.
If You Have Questions or Concerns
Please contact your coordinator if you have any concerns about an upcoming appointment or trip. They will be able to help you assess your individual needs so you and your local doctor can make an informed decision about your care.
For More Information
Stay informed as the situation develops:
