Wow. That's scary and crazy.
Luckily, I live in Canada, and here\s what our government seems to have to say on the issue:
Q2. I understand Canada has experienced deaths related to the H1N1 virus. Does this mean the virus has grown in strength?
There is no evidence to suggest that the virus has become stronger.
It is important to realize that different strains of influenza result in about 4,000 Canadian deaths a year. We must take all influenza – not just
the current strain – seriously, and take measures to protect ourselves
Q1. Are there drugs that can treat H1N1 Flu Virus?
Yes. Early research indicates that there are two prescription antiviral drugs, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) that are effective in
treating the H1N1 Flu Virus.
Q2. What are PHAC's recommendations for the use of antivirals?
PHAC's recommendation is that antivirals be used to treat H1N1 Flu Virus when the illness is moderate to severe and the patient is at a great risk
for complications. PHAC is not recommending that antivirals be given for a mild disease or on a preventive basis at this time. The reasons for this
are:
We do not have sufficient information to suggest that this influenza virus requires the use of antivirals. Most patients in Canada are recovering well
on their own.
There is a risk that the virus could be resistant to antiviral treatment if antivirals are overused to treat mild illness.
The antiviral stockpile is a finite resource. We want to be sure not to run out before they are really needed.
Q3. How are antiviral medications made available if needed?
Antiviral medications are prescription drugs. They may be obtained from a pharmacy with a regular prescription.
There is a national stockpile of antiviral medication, and some provinces and territories also have their own stockpiles. Every province and territory
has access to the national stockpile and antivirals have been distributed on a per-capita basis.
Q4. What is the difference between an antiviral and a vaccine?
Antivirals are drugs used for the prevention and early treatment of influenza. If taken shortly after getting sick (within 48 hours), they can reduce
influenza symptoms, shorten the length of illness and potentially reduce the serious complications of influenza.
Antivirals work by reducing the ability of the virus to reproduce but do not provide immunity against the virus. The H1N1 Flu Virus can be treated
with two different antivirals, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza).
A vaccine is any preparation intended to produce immunity to a disease by stimulating the production of antibodies. Vaccines are the primary means to
prevent illness and death from influenza. They stimulate the production of antibodies against the flu virus components included in the vaccine,
providing immunity against the virus.
In order to provide the best protection, a vaccine must be tailored to fight off specific strains of influenza.
Q5. I got my flu shot this year. Will it protect me against H1N1 Flu Virus ?
It is unlikely that the seasonal flu shot will provide protection against H1N1 Flu Virus . The flu shot will protect against the seasonal flu. A new
pandemic vaccine will be available to all Canadians who need and want to receive it.
source website: Public Health Agency of Canada
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca...
edit with some better info
[edit on 23-9-2009 by TheAmazingK]
[edit on 23-9-2009 by TheAmazingK]