Nathan Littauer Hospital in Gloversville is preparing its staff for flu season. The hospital is also hoping to spread the word and educate residents about the H1N1 virus. This, a few weeks before the anticipated H1N1 vaccine is shipped out to area hospitals. Our Dayana Perez has the story.

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These are typical questions people continue to ask. With flu season around the corner and the threat of the H1nN virus, it seems like more people are concerned about their health. In fact, Nathan Littauer Hospital reports an increase in calls from residents who want to know all about the flu.

"Our patients, our community are understandably concerned. They want to know what they're supposed to be doing," said Nathan Littauer Hospital staff member Sue Kiernan.

Hospital staff members gathered Thursday to talk about their plans and how they're hoping to better educate the community. Of course, one question that keeps coming up is who's qualified for the H1N1 vaccine.

"The Department of Health has put together a risk stratification for people who are at a higher risk of having severe illness from the swine flu. Those include pregnant women, infants, people of any age that are caring for elderly patients or infants, health care workers and the teenage to early 20 age group," said Nathan Littauer staff member Todd Duthaler.

Because the H1N1 flu and the regular flu cause similar symptoms, hospital officials say they'll only be providing H1N1 vaccines to those who fall into the risk category.

"What we discovered is that for the average person, the disease will last for about a week and then you'll get better. You're not required any specific treatment for it," Duthaler said.

The Nathan Littauer staff will hold a community outreach program next Tuesday at the Holiday Inn in Johnstown to answer any questions residents may have about the H1N1 virus.