Swine flu  symptoms are similar to the symptoms of the  influenza virus most are familiar with.   The good news is that most people who become  infected will do fine and will not have any long term complications.    Those who are immune-compromised, older  or pregnant may be at higher risk of complications or serious respiratory illness.  The most common swine flu symptoms include:

• Cough
• Congestion
• Nasal Congestion
• Body aches
• Joint Pain
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Decreased energy
• Rarely death

Precautionary measures you should take to prevent both seasonal flu and swine flu include:

• Washing your hands often with soap and warm water.  Alcohol-based hand cleansers are also effective.
• Avoiding people who are ill.
• Staying home from work or school if you are sick.
• Using tissue when you cough, sneeze or spit, and dispose of the tissue in a covered trash bin.
• Keeping hands away from your face.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Cleaning shared space more often such as phone receivers, keyboards, steering wheels and office equipment.
• Refraining from sharing personal items such as forks, spoons, toothbrushes and towels.

Transmission

The viral  infection is transmitted  to humans  who are in contact with swine, although there are several cases of swine flu in people who had no known exposure to either infected people or pigs.   Once the species barrier is crossed,  human to human  transmission can occur  with casual contact or airborne transmission, like  when one sneezes or coughs.   Eating pork products will not cause one to develop the swine flu.

Treatment

Maintaining adequate hydration is very  important  if you contract any viral illness. The swine flu is diagnosed  when a   physician suspects infection, and sends a nasopharyngeal  swab in a special viral collection container to a  special lab to be tested.  CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses.  These medications can also be used for the usual avian influenza.

Swine Flu Vaccine

At this time, there is no vaccine available to help prevent the swine flu.   If you did receive a flu vaccine this year, it will not offer you protection against the swine flu. 

Talk to your physician if you have concerns or other questions regarding swine flu.