Fever, Cough & A Sore Throat? Could It Be Swine Flu?

Melody Schubert
If you have these signs, which are similar to influenza medical professionals advice that you call your doctor to diagnosis the illness. These symptoms are similar to the Novel H1N1 Influenza virus or Swine Flu as it is known. Medical professionals have noted that vomiting and diarrhea are more common with the H1N1 flu than the seasonal flu. The H1N1 Influenza virus is a big concern for local medical professional and the CDC, which issued a warning to be prepared for potential outbreaks. The CDC has ask the medical community to also prepare for mass vaccinations of the population.

One of the question on our mind was how is the H1N1 Influenza virus transmitted? According to a release from the CDC, the virus is transmitted by droplets that float in the air during coughing, sneezing, or talking to someone infected with the H1N1 Influenza virus. The incubation period for the H1N1 Influenza virus is 2 to 7 days. It is important to be aware that if you are sick with the H1N1 Influenza virus you could be contagious anywhere from a day before up to seven days after the onset of your symptoms.

If you have asthma you may be especially susceptible to H1N1 influenza, and should check with your health care professional to discuss when a vaccinations will be available. Patients who are extremely obese patients may also be more susceptible to the risk for influenza complications that include chronic heart, liver, lung, or other metabolic diseases.

The vaccine for the H1N1 Influenza virus is expected to be available in October, and overlap the regular flu vaccinations that are available during the fall season. Among the population that are the greatest concern to health officials are students and the staff in K-12 schools. This includes children over six months and staff in daycare and preschool facilities. The H1N1 Influenza vaccination will also be given to pregnant women, children six months up to four years old who are not in daycare, new parents, as well as to those in the household who have care for or have contact with infants under six months.


Also on the list are the health care workers and emergency service workers that include Emergency Medical Technicians, law enforcement and firefighters, and the first responders. As well as those 65 and under who have chronic diseases such as immune deficiencies, asthma, COPD, obesity, diabetes, or other chronic conditions that could make you more susceptible to illness.

The key to being prepared for the H1N1 Influenza virus is not to panic. Your local medical professionals are working behind the scenes right now to administer vaccinations when they are available. Find the latest news on the CDC website at www.cdc.gov, which can keep you informed on the progress of vaccinations and updates on the H1N1 Influenza virus.

Presently, there are no restrictions on travel to related to the H1N1 Influenza virus. Although, the CDC does advice that you avoid traveling to areas that are affected unless it is absolutely necessary. If you are in an area the has reported cases of the H1N1 Influenza virus avoid contact with those who are sick and wash your hands often. If you do become ill, avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the H1N1 Influenza virus.

Remember, the best way to avoid the flu and the H1N1 Influenza virus is avoid contact with those who are sick, and to wash your hands for at least twenty seconds or use hand sanitizers. We can spread colds germs by touching our eyes, nose and mouth. When we cough or sneeze we can spread our germs to others as well, so use a tissue and throw it away.

Stay up to date on the current progress of vaccinations and alerts on the H1N1 Influenza virus by visiting the CDC website online at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu. Check your local government website or the World Health Organization's website for additional details www.who.org.
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Melody Schubert










Melody Schubert is Editorial Executive of USA Travel Magazine. She enjoys traveling with her husband, Leroy, and sharing their travels.









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