Email this pageWhat is H1N1?
Novel H1N1 (referred to as "swine flu" early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. First detected in the United States in April 2009, this virus spreads from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. Though the majority of cases continue to be mild, some cases– usually in children, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions – have been more severe. That's why the federal government is funding a national H1N1 vaccine program that is likely to start early on this fall.
On this site, you can:
- learn more about this new circulating flu,
- get insight as to when you should consider calling your doctor,
- check for urgent messages (e.g., special clinics for URMC patients, should they become available),
- find out how to get a vaccine.
Please note that, as is advised for all non-urgent medical conditions, patients should call their physicians for guidance and advice first before heading to an emergency department. This ensures that our community's urgent care resources are reserved for the patients who need them most.
