A Student's Guide to H1N1 Virus

How Are You Feeling?

The H1N1 Virus is a respiratory disease of pigs that doesn't normally impact humans. However, it is contagious and is currently spreading from human to human. This typically occurs the same way as seasonal flu: by coming in contact with infected people who are coughing or sneezing.

Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of the H1N1 Virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Body Aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the H1N1 Virus. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 infection in people. Like seasonal flu, this affliction may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Take this condition seriously, as H1N1 varies from mild to severe. If you feel sick, see a doctor. You may need to limit your contact with others so you don't infect them. And avoid spreading germs by:

• Not touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (and then throwing that tissue out!)
• Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, or using alcohol-based hand cleaners.

Emergency Warning Signs

Seek emergency medical care if you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs:

In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with a rash

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting