The emergence of the H1N1 flu or influenza virus has people concerned about coming down with the flu and perhaps even more so if they start showing any symptoms of the flu. It is possible during flu season that many people may get symptoms of the flu and not have the H1N1 flu.
The Centers for Disease Control has released some helpful information to advise those concerned that their symptoms might be the H1N1 flu and educating people what they can do if they get flu-like symptoms.
Getting the word out to the public about what to expect about the flu, will hopefully help to cut down on a lot of worried people showing up to doctor's offices or the emergency rooms for treatment of the regular flu.
Symptoms of the Flu
It is important for people to realize that the symptoms of this new H1N1 flu virus are going to be similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu. When someone comes down with the flu, he may show the following symptoms:
- Fever - greater than 100°F or 37.8°C
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
Also of note, a significant number of people who have the flu from the new H1N1 virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
What to Do if You Get Flu-Like Symptoms
The two things that people should do if they do get flu-like symptoms is to take care of themselves and to monitor for worsening of symptoms. It is important for people to realize as with other flu seasons that they may not need medical treatment to manage this flu virus. Most people infected with the H1N1 virus in the United States have had mild disease. Most people who get the flu or the H1N1flu are generally better in a couple of days and recover without needing any additional medical care.
Those who end up having more severe symptoms (see list below) of if the person is at high risk for flu complications should contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Health care providers can determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed. Be aware that the AMA (American Medical Association) president Dr. Nancy Nielson released a message to physicians to remind them that since many health agencies are being stretched because of budget cuts, to not "do swabs for viral isolation on folks who seem to have the common cold!"
The CDC advises that antiviral drugs can be given to treat those who become severely ill with the H1N1 flu or the regular flu. These antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) with activity against influenza viruses, including H1N1 flu virus. These medications must be prescribed by a health care professional.
When to Seek More Care - Adults
For adults the emergency warning signs that one needs to watch for and then seek urgent medical attention include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Any adult showing these different symptoms should seek medical treatment promptly.
When to Seek More Care - Children
For children the emergency warning signs that one needs to watch for and then seek urgent medical attention include:
- Fast breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish or gray skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Not waking up or not interacting
- Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Any child showing these different symptoms should seek medical treatment promptly.
How to Manage the Flu
Managing the flu involves symptom relief and keeping the person well-hydrated, or making sure the person is drinking enough water and taking food as tolerated.
The CDC advises using anti-pyretic (fever reducing) medications to relieve fever such as acetaminophen or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Any Aspirin or aspirin-containing products (e.g. bismuth subsalicylate – Pepto Bismol) *should not be* administered to any confirmed or suspected ill case of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
Prevent Getting the Flu
The best way to stay safe from the flu is by preventing contacting the virus. You can minimize your contact with the flu virus by being sure to cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently and effectively and avoid or minimize contact with people who are sick.
More
Dyer KA. 2009. How to Prevent Getting the H1N1 Flu. General Medicine. Suite 101.
Dyer KA. 2009. How to Wash Your Hands and Not Spread Germs. General Medicine. Suite 101.
Dyer KA. 2009. Tips for Talking to Children about the H1N1 Flu. Parenting Resources. Suite 101.
Kirsti A. Dyer - Kirsti A. Dyer MD, MS, FT is a respected physician, health educator, professor, author and lecturer.
