H1N1 Flu Tips and Resources
What is the H1N1 flu?
H1N1 (also known as “swine flu”) is a new influenza virus that causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhea and vomiting. It is spread from person to person, but it isn’t known how easily it spreads between people.
What should I do if I feel sick?
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible. UCare members also can call the nurses at Health Connection any time of day or night for advice. The toll-free Health Connection phone numbers for Minnesota Health Care Programs, UCare Connect, and UCare's Minnesota Senior Health Options members is 1-800-942-7858. The toll-free Health Connection phone number for UCare for Seniors members is 1-888-778-8204. The TTY number is 1-877-728-3311. UCare Complete members can call the AXIS Healthcare Nurse Line at 1-651-556-0887 (8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday) and after hours at 651-556-0866, TTY 651-556-0872.
Members can also call nurses at the new toll-free Minnesota FluLine, 1-866-259-4655, any time for support and treatment options
If you come down with the flu, stay home from work or school, and limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. Do not return to work or school until you have been fever-free at least 24 hours.
Should I get the H1N1 vaccine?
As H1N1 vaccine becomes available, you should consider protecting yourself and your family by getting the vaccine. Like the seasonal flu shot, the H1N1 vaccine is important for people who have chronic diseases, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart and lung conditions. The vaccine is also recommended for children and young adults aged 6 months through 24 years, and it's recommended for those who are in close contact with people who have chronic diseases and/or youngsters. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about getting the vaccine.
What is UCare doing about the spread of the H1N1 flu?
UCare is monitoring developments related to the H1N1 influenza on a continuous basis. We have contingency plans in place to respond quickly if the situation warrants. Our pandemic and business continuation plan will guide our response and ensure continued service to our members, and provider and business partners, in the event of a larger epidemic. We are also working with state agencies such as the Minnesota Department of Health, local public health departments, and health plan associations to coordinate our response.
How can I avoid getting the flu?
The best advice to protect you and your family from getting sick is to practice good health habits such as:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or alcohol-based cleaners.
- Cover your cough (or sneeze) with a tissue, and discard the tissue in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Consider getting a seasonal flu and H1N1 flu shot. Click here for the latest information on flu shot clinics.
Stay updated about flu outbreaks in your area, and follow public health advice regarding school closures and avoiding crowds.
View and print this helpful poster from the Minnesota Department of Health.*
View and print this helpful guide for parents from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.*
Where can I get up-to-date information about H1N1?
Tap into the latest news about H1N1 by tracking news reports online, on TV and the radio, and in the newspaper. Links to helpful sources of H1N1 information are below: