The 2009 H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, has health experts sounding the alarm. In June 2009, the World Health Organization, or WHO, declared an influenza pandemic. Swine flu symptoms are similar to the seasonal flu. For most people, the swine flu is a mild illness, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that this virus seems to strike harder in pregnant women and people under 25.
Sudden Onset
A common complaint among flu sufferers is that "it hit me like a freight train." You may have a couple of days' warning that a cold is coming on. With the flu, you can go from feeling fine to terribly sick in just a few hours.
Fever
Fever is rare with the common cold but almost always present in the flu. Fever with the swine flu can be high and often lasts three to four days. People with fever may also experience chills and headache.
Body Aches and Fatigue
Flu produces body aches. These aches can be extreme and widespread, making simple acts such as hair combing seem painful. It takes energy for your body to fight off a virus, and influenza is no exception. Flu sufferers report extreme exhaustion.
Cough
Unlike the productive, mucousy cough common with colds, the cough during swine flu is dry and hacking. People who have difficulty breathing, pain or pressure in the chest or a bluish color to their skin should get medical help right away.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Some people with 2009 H1N1 experience vomiting and diarrhea. Children are more likely to have vomiting and diarrhea with influenza than adults.
Vaccine
The CDC maintains that the vaccine for the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus is the best way to prevent being infected. The vaccine is recommended for pregnant women, people who live with or take care of infants less than 6 months old, people aged 6 months to 25 years old, and health care workers. Also at higher risk are people over 25 five who have medical conditions such as lung problems, asthma, heart conditions, kidney or liver problems, blood disorders and cancer. People who have neurological or neuromuscular disorders and those with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk for complications.
Hygiene
Regular hand-washing with soap and water, and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when hand-washing is not possible, can prevent illness. Since the virus is spread to your body by the eyes, nose and mouth, avoid touching these areas. Lastly, avoid contact with people who are sick whenever possible.
