Medical professionals and experts are bracing for the return this fall of the novel H1N1 virus. Thousands of Wisconsin residents contracted the disease this year, resulting in 239 hospitalizations and eight deaths as of Sept. 11.

What preventive measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the flu?

Dr. Seth Foldy, state health officer for the Department of Health Services, encouraged families to identify members who may be early candidates for the new H1N1 vaccine as well as those who may be at higher risk for serious flu complications. He said the focus for initial vaccinations will be on pregnant women, families of children younger than six months, everyone between 6 months and 24 years old, and those with serious underlying health conditions. However, he cautioned that larger supplies of the H1N1 vaccine will not arrive until mid-October. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends staying home when sick, washing hands frequently with soap and water, disinfecting commonly used items, maintaining a six-foot distance from people with illness, and covering sneezes and coughs.

Foldy added that those who have flu symptoms should wait to return to work until they have been fever-free without the aid of fever reducers for 24 hours. Persons who have come in contact with those diagnosed with H1N1 but have no symptoms themselves may be allowed to work, he said.

The CDC also recommends using antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) for prevention and treatment of the H1N1 virus. Antiviral prescriptions prevent the virus from spreading in the body once the person is ill, and work best if started within two days of symptoms appearing.

Foldy agreed, saying that - barring a significant change in the virus - medication may reduce illness if taken early. He said that at present, the overall risk of serious illness is low. In the event of a pandemic, prior planning can help if movement from the home is limited. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services' Division of Health recommends keeping a two-week food supply including ready-to-eat canned goods, bottled water, dry cereal or granola, canned juice, protein or fruit bars, peanut butter or nuts, crackers, or other non-perishable foods. In addition, the Division of Health suggests keeping a reserve supply of prescription medication as well as over-the-counter medicine, a first-aid kit, a working flashlight and radio with batteries, garbage bags, soap or cleanser, and a manual can opener. Other considerations include child care if schools are closed, pet care, and how to provide for relatives with special needs if support services are unavailable.

September is Preparedness Month, but the novel H1N1 virus will not go away at month's end. For current information on H1N1, visit http://pandemic.wisconsin.gov where you can also subscribe to receive email or text updates.

Individual preparation will go a long way toward mitigating some aspects of a pandemic. Are You Ready, Wisconsin?