1. Swine influenza is a flu virus usually found in pigs.
2. The virus occasionally changes (mutates) and becomes infectious in humans.
3. This becomes a concern because we have little or no immunity against it.
4. The virus then has the potential to spread quickly around the world.
5. It also may be more difficult to treat than the usual seasonal human flu virus.
6. The symptoms are:
*Fever above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
*Cough
*Sore throat
*Headache
*Chills
*Muscle aches
*Diarrhea
*Vomiting
7. Most people who get the H1N1 flu will recover without needing medical care.
8. Antiviral drugs will be available to treat those who become very sick with the flu or are at high risk for flu complications.
9. The CDC identifies the following people at high risk:
*Children under 5 years especially under 2 years
*Adults 65 years or older
*People with :
*Chronic lung or heart conditions
*Kidney, liver, neurologic and neuromuscular conditions
*Blood disorders
*Diabetes and other metabolic disorders
*An impaired immune system such as AIDS or cancer
patients receiving chemotherapy
*Other high risk people include:
*Pregnant women
*Under 19 years of age receiving long
term aspirin therapy
*Residents of nursing homes and other
chronic care facilities
10. Prevention:
*People who work with pigs should use protective clothing and special
breathing masks.
*Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Discard tissue.
*Wash hands properly or use alcohol based hand cleaners.
*Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
*Stay away from sick people.
*If you get sick stay home from work or school.
I wrote this because children under the age of three are one of the most at risk for getting the virus and also for complications. Check with your doctor or health care provider with any questions you may have.
