Symptoms of the Swine Flu

H1N1 Flu, commonly referred to as the swine flu, is a new form of influenza which has caused a great deal of concern in Mexico, Europe and the United States. The virus is called the swine flu, but it is actually a different variation of influenza. Original testing indicated many of the genes found in this virus were very similar to the influenza virus found in pigs in North America. Further tested however, revealed this was not swine flu, but a new version entirely.

As of May 13th 2009 the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported 3,352 cases in the United States. These are spread out across 44 states and the District of Columbia. The only states without a confirmed report of H1N1 are Arkansas, Alaska, North Dakota, Wyoming and West Virginia. Thus far there have been 3 deaths attributed to H1N1 flu. The CDC keeps an updated report of cases in the United States broken down by state.

The people most at risk for the flu are children under the age of five and persons over the age of 65. In most cases for the flu to be fatal there have to be other underlying health conditions present. Pregnant women are also at a greater risk from the flu. At present it is unclear if any group is more at risk for the H1N1 flu.

Symptoms of the H1N1 flu are very similar to what would be called the regular flu. This includes a fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Many people also report vomiting and diarrhea with H1N1.

Currently there is no vaccine for H1N1, but there are some standard precautions you can take to help protect yourself. The first to to wash your hands regularly. Try to avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes. Avoid contact with people who may already be infected. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and dispose of the tissue immediately. If you have symptoms you should stay home for 7 days or until you have been symptom free for 24 hours.

In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, there are warning signs that the virus may be affecting a person in a more severe manner. These include difficulty breathing, sudden dizziness, a state of confusion, persistent vomiting, or pressure in the chest or abdomen. In children watch for bluish or gray skin color, not interacting, and not wanting to be held. A final indication is if the flu symptoms seem to disappear, then come back suddenly with fever and a worse cough.

Source
Center for Disease Control and Prevention