Swine FluJust another Totalaccessnet.com Blogs weblog

Swine flu is an illness that is affecting hundreds of individuals in the

United States as well as worldwide. According to the CDC, the illness may

take some more time. Since one is likely to become infected with the

condition, they need to understand swine flu symptoms in order for them to

obtain proper treatment or medicaion.

The Symptoms

The symptoms of H1N1 infection is similar to that of seasonal flu. Among

the symptoms include cough, sore throat, running or stuffy nose, chills and

fatigue, to name just a few. Several people infected with the virus have

complained of diarrhea and vomiting. The high risk groups prone to H1N1 is

not yet known at the moment but it is likely that they are similar to those

suffering from seasonal influenza.

People at greater risk of serious side effects from seasonal flu include

people more than 65 years old, children below 5 years old, pregnant women,

and people with chronic medical consitions as well as those who are taking

immunosuppressive medications or with HIV infection.

Avoid Social Contact

If you are feeling sick, your condition may last for more than a week. You

should remain at home and refrain from making social contact. As much as

possible, you should not communicate with other people to avoid the spread

of the virus.

At the moment, the CDC believes that H1N1 has similar properties on the

aspect of transmission with seasonal flu virus. If you go out of the house

to consult your doctor, wear a mask or use a tissue when coughing or

sneezing. 

According to recent studies, people suffering from seasonal flu are at risk

to transmit the disease a day prior to development of symptoms for up to

seven days after getting sick.

Children are more likely to be at risk for a longer period of time so it is

best to consult a healthcare provider.
Emergency Warning Signs

If you suddenly become sick and experience any of the following warning

signs, this is your cue to seek emergency medical assistance.

In the case of children becoming ill due to H1N1infection, the following

warning signs may require immediate medical attention:

* Fast or difficulty in breathing
* Bluish or gray colored skin
* Insufficient amount of liquids
* Severe or continuous vomiting
* Lack of sleep or interaction
* Irritability
* Recovery from flu-like symptoms but the symptoms come back with fever and

worse coughing

Among adults, the following emergency warning signs demand immediate

medical attention:

* Trouble with breathing or shortness of breath
* Abdominal pains or pressure in the chest
* The individual suddenly becomes dizzy
* The patient is confused
* Severe or continuous vomiting
* Recovery from flu-like symptoms but the symptoms come back with fever and

worse coughing

Prevention Is The Best Treatment

You can do your part in preventing the spread of the H1N1 virus. Here are

some tips on how you can take part in efforts for preventing the spread of

infection.

* Be aware. Obtain information about H1N1 by visiting the website of the

CDC.

* Use a tissue in covering your mouth and nose when sneezing. Afterwards,

throw the tissue in the trash.

* With soap and water, wash your hands after coughing or sneezing. If

possible, use alcohol-based sanitizers.

* Refrain from touching your nose or mouth as this could lead to easy

transmission of germs.

By being aware of swine flu symptoms, the spread of the H1N1 virus would

easily be prevented.