Durham, NC - Flu season is in full swing, and this year could pack a one-two punch with the novel H1N1 flu virus.

Dr. George Jackson, director of Duke Employee Occupational Health and Wellness, said the best defense is protection: wash hands often with soap and water; avoid touching faces and avoid contact with people who are sick. And get a seasonal flu shot.

There are lots of things people can do to keep themselves healthy -- like not smoking, eating a reasonable diet, getting enough sleep and exercise on a regular basis," Jackson said. "These are positive steps to enhance overall health, which will help ward off the flu and decrease complications if you get it."

Through mid-December, the seasonal flu shot is offered free to employees across campus. The seasonal flu vaccine is also available 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 20 during the employee Health Fair in the Searle Center.

When the 2009 H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine is available, it will be distributed based on criteria defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel are at the top of the list. The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against H1N1.

Working@Duke met with Dr. Jackson to learn more about the seasonal and H1N1 influenza infections.

What's different about this novel H1N1 flu virus?

The novel H1N1 flu virus, which was originally referred to as swine flu, has enough different components that most people have no immunity against infection. Because of this, more people will get infected than the usual seasonal flu. There isn't a significant difference in symptoms caused by H1N1 compared to seasonal influenza. But because more people will get infected with H1N1, there will be much more illness in the community and much more potential for spread.

Who is most at risk?

Seasonal influenza is more serious among the old and very young, however with H1N1, there is a different pattern because fewer older individuals are getting infected. This could be because older people may have had experience with this strain of virus in the past. People at the greatest risk of complications from H1N1 are the same as those with seasonal influenza: pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses like respiratory problems.

How will Duke employees know they have the flu?

It's difficult to differentiate between the cold and influenza. The big differential is fever. If there is a fever of 100 degrees or over, we encourage people to view themselves as having influenza. They should isolate themselves from others. Leave work or school, and stay home.

Do people need more than one flu shot?

It's possible people may need three shots this year, but that could change. The seasonal flu will be the usual one-time vaccination. The government expects to have a vaccine for H1N1 available between mid-October and November. Although it was initially indicated more than one shot would be needed, new information encourages a single dose. When it becomes available, it will be rationed and initially only be available for youth and people with significant illnesses or conditions who are at high risk if they get influenza.