Important Flu Information
Did you know....?

• There is a difference between the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu.

• The seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza (flu) viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the seasonal flu is by getting a seasonal flu vaccination each year.

• H1N1 flu (sometimes referred to as "swine flu") is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This virus is spreading person-to-person, probably in much the same way that seasonal influenza viruses spread.

• H1N1 Pediatric High Risk Screening Form 

   
• ECHO H1N1 Web site

Click here for more flu information...

News Releases

Minnesota Department of Health News Release
October 21, 2009  

Minnesota FluLine to offer support and treatment options for people with possible symptoms of influenza

Minnesotans with flu symptoms can call toll-free line at 1-866-259-4655
A new phone-based service is now available for Minnesotans who think they may have the flu. Click here to read more....

Immanuel St. Joseph's Announces Restrictions on Hospital Visitors

Officials with Immanuel St. Joseph’s — Mayo Health System, today announced restrictions on visitors to its Mankato hospital in order to protect patients and limit the spread of influenza-like illness.

Effective immediately visitors to pediatric patients and maternity patients are being restricted in the following ways:

• No visitors under the age of five will be permitted to visit pediatric or maternity patients
• Siblings of an infant or child patient can visit if they are at least five years old
• Other visitors to an infant or child patient must be at least 16 years old

Click here to read more....