In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared that the influenza virus 2009 H1N1 was spreading on multiple continents, signaling that it had reached pandemic levels. This new virus is an assortment of viral genes from the influenza virus that normally circulates in some swine populations, recombined with viral genes circulating in birds and human. Although it has symptoms similar to seasonal flu, its novelty means that most people will have no immunity to this new virus, and so it may cause severe complications and even death in some people. The swine flu virus is most destructive when it infects pregnant women, young children and people with underlying chronic heart, respiratory or immune system problems, making them inherently more vulnerable to complications from this new flu. Unlike seasonal flu, the very old seem to be more resistant to severe complications from 2009 H1N1, suggesting there may be some residual immunity in the senior population from exposure to earlier swine flu epidemics.
Fever, Chills and Body Aches
Fever may be a symptom with 2009 H1N1 infection, but some people report respiratory symptoms without fever. Fever is a sign that you are fighting off active viral infection and are contagious at this time. Stay home from work or school for at least 24 hours after you are fever-free to avoid spreading the virus. if you are using fever-reducing medications, increase the interval between doses as you feel better so you can tell that the fever is truly gone and not simply depressed by the medication.
Cough
H1N1 flu is spread by droplets through the air and by direct contact with the virus. Coughing is a symptom of the flu and is a primary method of passing viral particles form one person to the next. Cover your mouth when you cough. Wash your hands frequently, particularly after contact with others.
Runny Nose and Sore Throat
A runny nose and sore throat are common symptoms associated with H1N1. Use a disposable tissue to blow your nose and wash your hands frequently. Avoiding touching your eyes and mouth because that is how you spread germs to yourself from contaminated items. The flu virus can survive for two to eight hours on surfaces. Soap and water can be used to clean hands and surfaces.
Headaches and Fatigue
Fatigue, headaches and a general feeling of malaise may be your first signs that you are getting some form of cold or flu. Get plenty of rest, eat healthy and use your usual headache remedies.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Although most people report respiratory symptoms with H1N1, some people also report gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting and diarrhea) with H1N1. Children may be more likely to experience vomiting and diarrhea from an H1N1 infection than adults.
Warning
Although many people have found their H1N1 symptoms to be mild and treatable at home, certain symptoms are signs that you should go to the emergency room. In children, be alert for signs of rapid breathing or trouble breathing. A bluish cast to the skin also indicates children are not getting enough oxygen and breathing is inefficient. Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids, or frequent diarrhea and vomiting is also a serious sign. If your child is extremely irritable and does not want to be held, symptoms are becoming severe. If symptoms seem to improve but then return with a fever and a worse cough, pneumonia may be developing. Fever with a rash also indicates that symptoms are more serious. If your child seems sluggish and non-responsive, take him to the ER. In adults, shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, dizziness, confused thinking and persistent vomiting are all signs that indicate a visit to the ER for medical treatment.
