Swine flu, or H1N1, made its first human appearance in the United States in April 2009. It is a novel form of influenza that differs from the seasonal flu. Within the influenza family, swine flu is given the title "influenza A." According to the Mayo Clinic, it contains genetic material from human, swine and avian flu viruses. Although H1N1 is often referred to as swine flu, this is not the official name. True swine flu is spread amongst pigs and occasionally to hog farm workers and veterinarians, per the Mayo Clinic. H1N1 spreads quickly and easily from person-to-person. As of June 2009, the infection had spread worldwide and was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. Swine flu prevention requires frequent hand washing with soap and water and preventing the spread of germs by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. The symptoms of swine flu are quite similar to seasonal influenza, but it can lead to serious complications.
Earliest Symptoms
Within 3 to 5 days of exposure to the swine flu virus, an individual may begin to develop symptoms of what appears to be a common cold. This can begin with sneezing and a sore throat. Nasal congestion may follow soon after. According to Flu.gov, individuals may have what seems to be a common cold for a few days and then recover. A sudden onset of more severe symptoms may occur shortly after what appeared to be the end of the cold. This is especially common in infants. Infants may not show any of the common respiratory symptoms, per Flu.gov.
Progressive Symptoms
As the nasal congestion builds, an individual may experience a sinus headache. A fever may be present and lead to chills and body aches. An individual may be weak and struggle to carry on normal activities. Much like a cold, the symptoms will gradually get worse.
A person with swine flu will feel much worse than if she had a common cold. According to Mayo Clinic, the symptoms will develop for about eight days beginning on the day before you felt sick. Individuals who are under the age of two, pregnant or suffering from other health issues may end up hospitalized or seeking emergency medical attention at this stage in the swine flu infection. Infants are not as likely to exhibit a fever, says Flu.gov.
Serious Symptoms
Occasionally, individuals have reported diarrhea and vomiting with swine flu, but these symptoms do not help distinguish this strain of flu from others. Serious warning signs of swine flu include fast breathing, breathing difficulties, bluish or gray skin color, severe or persistent vomiting, pain in the chest or abdomen and dizziness. These symptoms require emergency medical treatment.
An infant or child who becomes unresponsive or too lethargic to engage in activity, or one who is too irritable to even be held, should seek medical attention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommend emergency assistance for individuals who have a rash with a fever or children who are not drinking enough fluids during the illness.
