According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the swine flu, also known as H1N1, is a newer influenza strain that was first detected in the U.S. around April 2009. The H1N1 strain was nicknamed the swine flu because scientists initially thought this strain was very similar to flu strains found in pigs. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared this flu strain as a worldwide pandemic. Symptoms of the swine flu are very similar to those of other flu strains.
General Information
According to the Mayo Clinic, swine flu signs and symptoms develop three to five days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms generally last up to eight days and are very contagious. The swine flu can be easily spread through coughing and sneezing.
Common Symptoms
The common symptoms of the swine flu are very similar to other flu strains like the seasonal flu. Individuals may first experience fever, coughs, sneezing and a sore throat. Next, individuals suffer from body aches, headaches and chills. Lastly, most people will suffer diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Respiratory Illnesses
The swine flu can lead to serious respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and respiratory failure. The Canadian Lung Association defines pneumonia as a lung infection that prevents oxygen from getting into the bloodstream due to a fluid buildup in the lungs. According to Merck.com, respiratory failure is when the level of oxygen in the blood becomes too low or the level of carbon dioxide in the blood becomes too high.
Warning Signs in Children
According to Flu.gov, if children experience the following symptoms then urgent medical attention is required: breathing difficulties, dehydration, bluish or grayish skin color, continuous vomiting, severe fatigue, inability to interact, severe cough, or high fever.
Warning Signs in Adults
According to the CDC, if adults experience the following symptoms then urgent medical attention is required: high fever, severe cough, breathing difficulties, dehydration, continuous vomiting, persistent dizziness, confusion, chest pain or abdominal pain.
