The following people are most at risk of getting H1N1 (Swine) Flu:

·         People under the age of 25 are most at risk of getting H1N1 disease.

While anyone can have complications from H1N1 flu, the following people are most at risk of serious complications, such as pneumonia, hospitalization, or death from H1N1 flu.  It is important for these individuals to call and talk to their healthcare provider early if they develop fever and respiratory symptoms:

·         Children under the age of 5, especially those under the age of 2

·         Pregnant women

·         Individuals with underlying health issues such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease (including asthms), cancer, kidney disorders, liver disorders, neurological disorders, neuromuscular disorders and weakened immune systems

·         Adults 65 or older

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·         Children who take long term aspirin therapy (because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome).

Interestingly, people over age 65 rarely get H1N1 flu.  Most likely they have been exposed to a similar virus that circulated some time in the past and therefore have some natural protection against the virus.  Although they rarely get H1N1 flu, when it does happen people over 65 can be at increased risk of complications.