H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported cases of the swine flu in the United States. Cases have also been reported in other countries, including Mexico and Canada.
The swine flu virus is mainly spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
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Avoid close contact with others who are sick.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners also work well.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Symptoms of the swine flu include a cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, chills, and extreme tiredness (fatigue). Some people have had vomiting and diarrhea. Most people have mild symptoms. But swine flu can lead to pneumonia in severe cases, and it may make other health problems worse. An infected person can infect others 1 day before symptoms start and for 7 days after getting sick. That means people can spread swine flu before they know they have it.
If you do get sick with flu-like symptoms:
- Talk to your doctor. You may need to be tested.
- Stay home from school or work to avoid infecting other people.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
For more information, go to the CDC Web site at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu.