What Are The Symptoms Of Swine Flu? Could I have it?
Posted: Monday, April 27, 2009
by Asher Ricard
Every major media news outlet has a headline about the Swine Flu. Reporters across the world are reporting the possibility of another historical flu pandemic.
Before rushing to the hospital, make sure you know the facts of the flu. Many times, individuals rush to the emergency room or doctor's office only to make themselves sick by catching something in the waiting rooms or being in close contact from the actual sick people.
Have I traveled to or know someone who has been to Mexico recently? The outbreak started in Mexico and has killed around 100 people. Something to note is most of those deaths were caused by waiting too long to get help, so the flu had progressed further then in normal circumstances.
Have I been around any one who has been sick or had fever? The swine flu is not going to just come from no where. It is a contagious disease. So if you have not traveled, it would have to be from someone close.
Do I even have the symptoms? The swine flu mimics the flu we have become very aware of over the years. The symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches and chills.
How do I tell if I have the regular flu or swine flu? The difference comes in the traveling or being near someone who has traveled. Either way, call your doctor. The same medicines used to treat the seasonal flu are being used to treat swine flu. Early treatment is important.
Is there any way to protect myself? Normal good hygiene routines are essential. Cover your mouth with your inner elbow when you cough. Use a tissue to wipe your nose.
Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and wash your hands frequently.
What if I am traveling? Use the same good hygiene precautions. There are no vaccines for swine flu. Take the basic precautions, stock up on some vitamin C.
The world is really more capable to handle a swine flu pandemic then in the past. Before you take cover and lock yourself away from society, take a deep breath and relax. We have an advance medical community that if fully capable of stopping and treating this outbreak.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Hi,My name is Brittany. I am 13.I have all of the symptoms of Swine Flu! What should i do about it?Go to the doctors? Or, wait till it gets worse?
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