How does swine flu spread?
Influenza viruses can be directly spread person-to-person mainly through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People can become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their nose or mouth.
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include:
- Fever(>100 F or 38 C)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
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- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting
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What should I do if I think I may have the swine flu?
There's no place like home when you have the flu.
First, don't panic. Doctors say home is the best place to recover from the flu. Most people who get the flu – seasonal or H1N1 – will recover without serious complications. Treatment with antibiotics and antiviral medications is generally not needed and will not be prescribed unless needed.
- Take over-the-counter medication for symptom relief and as needed for fever and pain
- Drink clear fluids (water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants)
- Children under 4 should not be given over-the-counter medicine without approval of a health care provider
- Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone
- Wash your hands frequently
If you have flu-like symptoms and are in a high-risk group (pregnant, less than 5-years-old or have a chronic disease) contact your physician.
Call PinnacleHealth OneLine at
(717) 231-8900, if you are unsure of the proper procedures. Remember, the flu itself is not an emergency. The complications from the flu are an emergency.
When should I go to the ER?
Unless directed by your doctor, do not go to Hospital or Emergency Department unless you have the following symptoms:
Adults
Signs and symptoms of flu PLUS:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in chest
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve, but then return or worsen
Children
Signs and symptoms of flu PLUS:
- Rapid breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish or gray skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Not waking up or interacting
- Being so irritable the child does not want to be held
- Flu-like symptoms improve then return with fever and cough
See the resources on the right for more information.
PinnacleHealth "In the News" about Swine Flu