INFECTION    CONTROL

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INFLUENZA SIGNS & SYMPTOMS:

The clinical definition for both seasonal and pH1N1 influenza is:

• Acute onset of respiratory illness with fever and cough PLUS one or more of the following:

·             sore throat

·             arthralgia (joint pain)

·             myalgia (muscle pain)

·             prostration (extreme exhaustion)

Fever may not be present in young children and the elderly.  As well, some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the pH1N1 influenza

(source: MOHLTC)

More information

can be found on the following websites:

Haliburton Kawartha Pines Ridge District Health Unit

Central East LHIN

Public Health Canada

Ministry of Health & Long Term Care

FURTHER DETAILS:

What is H1N1 flu virus (Human Swine Flu)?

The H1N1 flu virus is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza viruses.  These viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.  Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swime flu.  In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu virus infection in people.  Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does N1N1 flu virus spread?

Spread of the H1N1 flu 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..  Sometimes people may become infected by touching contaminated objects or surfaces with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There are vaccine clinics available right now to protect against H1N1 flu virus.  Click on the HHHS Home Page, and the links above for further details.  As well, there are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.  Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.  60%-90% alcohol-based hand rub is also effective.
• Sneeze or cough into your sleeve.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth - Germs spread this way.

• If you get sick with the flu, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible.  Do not go to work or school if ill.  Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.  It may prevent those around you from getting sick.  Put your used tissue in the waste basket.  Cover your cough or sneeze into your sleeve if you do not have a tissue.  Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.