Hah information sheets

Swine Influenza – H1N1 Virus
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and have recently been in a known affected area, stay at home and limit contact with other people. What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people. Is this swine flu virus contagious?
Swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of common human flu. Symptoms of swine flu in people and include: Some people have reported diarrhoea and vomiting associated with swine flu. How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. People may also become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. There has also been some reports of dogs and cats catching this virus; if your pet shows signs of coughing and or sneezing seek a vets advice and encourage plenty of fluids. What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
 Try to stay in good health * avoid contact with others you know are  Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus  Avoid close contact with people who are sick Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. Tamiflu is used for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick This advice sheet is for information only and in no way is meant as a substitute for medical advice If you suspect you have a flu like virus, seek medical advice as soon as possible especially if you have other health problems or are over the age of 65years. Prepared by Clinical Lead Lynda Christopher BSc Hons NP, RGN, RSCN, Dip Ch , SP. On behalf of HAH. January 2011-01-24

Source: http://www.helpathome.es/advice_sheets/Swineflu.pdf