Novel H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)

Know your Signs & Symptoms

Novel N1H1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in humans in the United States since April 2009. Although it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people, it is a contagious virus. This typically occurs the same way as seasonal flu:  by coming in contact with infected people who are coughing or sneezing.

Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue
  

Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.  In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people.  Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Take this condition seriously, as swine flu varies from mild to severe.  If you feel sick, see a doctor.  You may need to limit your contact with others so you don’t infect them.  Avoid spreading germs by:

• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (and then throwing that tissue out)
• Avoiding close contact with sick people
• Washing your hands often with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand cleaners, especially after coughing or sneezing  
  

Persons at High Risk

Persons who are at high risk of complications from H1N1 infection may include:

• Persons with chronic medical conditions
• Children less than 5 years old
  
• Persons 65 years or older
• Pregnant women
  

Emergency Warning Signs

Seek emergency medical care if you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs:

In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with a rash
  

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting