Human swine (H1N1) Influenza symptoms are the same as seasonal flu symptoms for most people. Until recently, swine flu occurrence in humans only appeared sporadically, and was associated with transmission by direct exposure to pigs. Beginning in 2005, reports of the virus in humans began to escalate, with 12 cases reported from December 2005 through February 2009. Human swine flu is the same influenza A (H1N1) virus found in pigs. The first major outbreak of human swine flu occurred in 1976 among soldiers at Fort Dix.
Fever
Human H1N1 swine flu is accompanied by a fever of 100 degrees F or greater. Fever of 104 or greater require immediate medical treatment but can otherwise remain untreated. Fever is the body's natural defense mechanism against bacteria and viruses. Maintaining a low-grade fever can help the body heal. Bacteria and viruses do not thrive at higher temperatures.
Fatigue and Body Aches
Fatigue is a common symptom of human H1N1 swine flu. Inability to perform normal daily activities because of tiredness, inability to concentrate and feelings of general malaise are also symptoms of many other conditions. Body aches are generalized. Headache is common.
Respiratory Symptoms
Cough, sore throat and runny nose are symptoms of human H1N1 swine influenza. Some people have developed pneumonia from secondary bacterial infection. Respiratory symptoms can be severe, requiring hospital admission. Respiratory failure and death have occurred from H1N1 flu. Severe respiratory symptoms have been seen within six days after onset of H1N1 flu, progressing to critical illness within two days of hospital admission.
Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary emboli (PE, blood clots) have been found among critically ill patients with H1N1 swine flu. Symptoms of PE include chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, rapid heart rate and dizziness. Pulmonary embolism development is a recent finding associated with other symptoms of H1N1 swine flu in humans.
