By now most people have heard of the 2009 H1N1 influenza, which is also called by many Swine Flu. This flu is caused by a new strain of the influenza virus.

The difference from the H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu is, H1N1 is a completely new strand of influenza and many people have little or no immunity to it.  It has spread to many countries and has become a world wide pandemic. Fatigue, fever, sore throat, muscle aches, chills, coughing, and even diarrhea and vomiting are all signs of the H1N1 virus and should alert people to get a check up for the virus.

North Carolina A&T has just received a limited amount of the Live, attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV).  With the rapid spread of the virus it is important that people consider the vaccine. This virus, like the regular seasonal flu virus, can be passed from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and sometimes by touching contaminated items.

To avoid the H1N1 virus at North Carolina A&T, Sebastian Health Center will be distributing the nasal vaccine today, November 4 at Exhibit Hall in the Student Union, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 pm. The vaccination is recommended for healthy individuals in the age range of 2 years old through 24, individuals that are 25 to 49 years of age who live with or care for infants, or individuals who are health or emergency personnel.  The vaccine will be distributed on a first come first serve basis.

The vaccine against H1N1 is made just like the seasonal flu vaccines. It is expected to be safe and as effective as the seasonal flu vaccine, but like a lot of vaccines and medicines there may be mild reactions such as runny nose, and headaches. It is important that if you are allergic to eggs or any other substance in the vaccine that you avoid getting it. 

• Marcus Walker