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Are you coughing or feeling fatigued? Are you asking yourself “Do I have the H1N1 or seasonal flu?” Do you know what to do if you or a loved one becomes sick with the H1N1 flu? Hopefully, this article will help answer some of your important questions and ease your concerns regarding the H1n1 flu. According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: “The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, including 2009 H1N1 and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.”

Most people who get H1N1 will get better on their own within a week or so. The CDC advises that you stay home for seven days from the onset of H1N1 symptoms.The harsh reality is that some people with the flu may need to be seen right away and treated in emergency rooms and even be admitted to hospitals for care. However, most cases of flu are fortunately mild and people can often take care of themselves at home just fine.

Please note that this information is not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. While an examination and diagnostic testing is required to diagnose H1N1, it is important that you become educated on knowing the common signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu. Early detection and proper intervention is key to fighting any illness. CDC has a downloadable educational flyer on signs and symptoms of the flu and clear instructions on what to do if you are sick.

Please click on this CDC link for more info:

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/2009-10/pdf/what_to_do_if_you_get_sick.pdf.

If you are unsure about whether or not you have the H1N1 or seasonal flu, you should contact your doctor immediately before symptoms get worse. If you are showing signs and symptoms, you should avoid public crowded places such as work or school to prevent spreading of the virus. To keep other family members from catching the flu at home, you should wash your hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Also use tissues to contain all coughs and sneezes. If it is not too cold outside, try to get some fresh air flowing thru the home.

Here are some easy tips on how to make yourself feel better, limit the growth, impact, and spread of virus:

*You can contact your physician and seek advice for a antiviral prescription such as Tamiflu

*Since the flu virus enters through your nose and mouth, one should frequently hand-wash and avoid touching the face.

*Stay home from school, work, or other activities. Avoid crowds.

*Get plenty of rest

*Clean your nostrils daily (blow hard into tissue and swab nostrils with Q-tip dipped in salt water)

*Gargle daily with warm salt water or antiseptic mouthwash to prevent exacerbation of viral population.

*Drink plenty of fluids and make sure you get plenty of Vitamin C. *Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.