2010 Flu Season Information

As your partner in health care, Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire (GHC) is committed to supporting the health and wellness of our members. Entering into the 2010 flu season, we want to address some common questions regarding the seasonal flu as well as the H1N1 (swine) flu.

On this portion of our site, we’ve included the following information:

If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at (715) 552-4300 or (888) 203-7770. One of our Member Services Advocates will be happy to assist you.


Who Should Get the Seasonal Flu Vaccine?
The seasonal flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. The flu virus attacks the body by spreading through the nose, mouth, lungs and/or lower respiratory tract.

In accordance with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Eau Claire County Health Department, the seasonal flu vaccine is suggested for the following groups:

  • Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday
  • Women who will be pregnant during the flu season (October to May)
  • People 50 years of age and older
  • People of all ages with chronic or long-term health problems

Who Should Get the H1N1 Flu Vaccine?
2010 H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment.

In accordance with recommendations from the CDC and the Eau Claire County Health Department, the H1N1 flu vaccine is suggested for the following groups:

  • Women who will be pregnant during the flu season (October to May)
  • Contacts and caregivers for children younger than 6 months of age
  • Health care and emergency medical services personnel
  • All people from 6 months through 24 years of age
  • People aged 25-64 years of age who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza

Where to Get the Vaccine
If you or a dependent will be receiving the seasonal flu or H1N1 vaccination, please contact your primary care provider. You will need to receive the vaccine from a provider within our network. We cannot reimburse the cost of the seasonal flu or H1N1 vaccine from out-of-network providers.

Common Symptoms
The common symptoms for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus are virtually identical. They include:

  • Fever greater than 100 degrees
  • Headache
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Dry cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle aches
  • Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, can also occur, but are more common in children than adults. Stomach symptoms are typically seen more often in cases of H1N1 flu than seasonal flu.

This online flu self-assessment can help determine if your symptoms are characteristic of the seasonal flu or the H1N1 flu virus. If you are experiencing these symptoms and think you may have the flu, call your health care provider to see if a clinic visit is necessary. In most cases, seasonal and H1N1 flu viruses will resolve on their own over time. Individual recovery time will vary depending on each individual’s health status. Laboratory testing for the H1N1 flu is rarely needed for effective treatment.

Tips for Flu Prevention
The flu is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through the air by the coughing or sneezing of infected individuals. By following some simple steps, you can help prevent the spread of the flu virus.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth between hand washings.
  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night so your body isn’t run down.
  • Eat a healthy diet, including five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
  • Cough into your sleeve – this can prevent the spread of airborne flu viruses
  • If you are feeling ill, stay home. The CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Additional Resources