Health Department

Metro Public Health Department

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Update on 2009 H1N1 flu in Nashville/Davidson County

Cases of H1N1 flu continue to occur in Davidson County. As children return to school, experts expect that the numbers of cases of H1N1 flu will increase.

Like ordinary flu viruses, the 2009 H1N1 influenza (flu) virus can spread from person to person when an ill person coughs and sneezes. When people cough or sneeze, they spread infectious droplets through the air or onto surfaces that other people may touch.  Although H1N1 flu has been called “swine flu”, it is not transmitted from pigs to humans or from eating pork products.

The Health Department recommends taking the following steps to reduce the spread of H1N1.
What to do to reduce spread of flu viruses:

  • Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or cough into your shirt sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people.

What to do if you are sick with fever and flu-like symptoms:

  • Consult your primary care provider if you are concerned about your illness.
  • Do not visit emergency rooms unless your symptoms are severe.
  • Laboratory testing to determine what kind of flu is present is not always necessary
  • Stay home until you have been well at least 24 hours.
  • If your child is sick, keep them at home. Consult your pediatrician.

Flu-like symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Dry cough
  • Sore throat
  • In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea