H1N1 Influenza

Frequently Asked Questions: Heart Disease

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FAQs: HIN1 and Heart Disease»

Questions

How will getting H1N1 and/or the seasonal flu affect me and my heart disease?

What can I do to prepare for the H1N1 and/or seasonal flu?

When should I call my health care provider?

How can I protect myself?

How will getting H1N1 and/or the seasonal flu affect me and my heart disease?

If you have heart disease you may experience a more severe illness from any influenza infection, including illness with H1N1.

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What can I do to prepare for the H1N1 and/or seasonal flu?

• Talk with your doctor about obtaining a two-week supply of your medication(s) and the supplies necessary to administer medications.
• Keep the name, phone number and office address of your doctor or health care provider with you at all times.
• Get a written record of your heart disease and the treatment you are receiving. Keep this information with you at all times.
• Prepare a list of all medications usually taken and the times of day they are taken.

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When should I call my health care provider?

• Be alert to symptoms that may indicate decreased heart function and/or symptoms that may indicate the need for immediate medical services.
• Call your health care provider if any of the following happen to you: You notice changes in your breathing, experience chest pains or other symptoms of heart failure.
• You have questions about appropriate medication dosage during your illness.
• Your body temperature is over 101 degrees F.

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How can I protect myself?

Get Vaccinated

• Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself. The H1N1 vaccine is in plentiful supply now. Check vaccine locations or ask your health care provider.
• The H1N1 flu vaccine does not protect against seasonal flu or replace the need for seasonal flu vaccine.

Prevent Infection

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands, as this is how germs spread most quickly.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Use a tissue or the crook of your elbow to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• If you are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home and contact your health care provider.

Stay Healthy

• Eat well, get plenty of rest and reduce your stress as much as possible.
• Staying healthy will help your immune system fight off a flu infection if you are exposed.
• If you have symptoms, contact your health care provider and follow their instructions.
• If you are already taking medications, continue to take them as prescribed.

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Page updated February 4, 2010