Last updated November 19, 2009

Seasonal and 2009 H1N1 (Novel H1N1)

Novel H1N1 virus

On this page, you will find links to information about seasonal influenza and about the pandemic H1N1 influenza. This page will be updated with information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the University Hygienic Laboratory (UHL).

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It is spread in seasonal epidemics, usually during winter months, although the actual start and end of the flu season are difficult to predict. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Each year in the United States on average, 5 percent to 20 percent of the population get the flu; approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications, and; approximately 36,000 people die from flu-related causes.

This flu season (2009-2010) is unusual because of the emergence of a new 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (previously called "novel H1N1" or "swine flu") that has caused the first influenza pandemic (global epidemic of disease) in more than 40 years. The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic due to the 2009 novel H1N1 occurring in multiple countries around the world and because of the widespread human infection. The classification does not reflect the severity of the disease, but is a geographic designation.

Information on the disease, how it is spread, prevention, vaccines, treatment and related topics can be found at both the CDC and the IDPH websites, including the sites listed below:

• Novel Influenza A FAQs; What should I do if I get sick?: Johnson County Public Health
• Questions & Answers: Influenza Diagnostic Testing During the 2009-2010 Flu Season - For the Public: CDC
• Influenza (seasonal): CDC IDPH
• Novel H1N1: CDC IDPH
• Information for specific groups, such as schools, people with diabetes, travelers, etc.: CDC
• Surveillance: CDC IDPH
• Iowa Department of Public Health updates and factsheets: IDPH
• UHL/IDPH 2009 teleconference for schools and daycares

Healthcare Providers:

• Interim Guidance on Infection Control Measures: CDC
• Questions & Answers: Interim Recommendations for Clinical Use of Influenza Diagnostic Testing During the 2009-2010 Influenza Season - For Health Care Providers: CDC
• Information on testing, treatment, surveillance, etc.: IDPH CDC
• Surveillance data for Iowa: IDPH
• Guidance for rapid influenza diagnostic tests: CDC
• Flu frequently asked questions
• UHL/IDPH 2009 teleconference for health care providers
• Interim Recommendations for Clinical Use of Influenza Diagnostic Tests During the 2009-10 Influenza Season: CDC

UHL Laboratory Testing: Interim Recommendations for Clinical Use of Influenza Diagnostic Tests During the 2009-10 Influenza Season: CDC Testing algorithm UHL testing (specimen collection and submission) and result interpretation*Updated* UHL Test Request Form: Guide to required information Flu frequently asked questions*Updated* If you wish to submit a question, contact us. Last updated November 19, 2009