Swine Flu

swineflu

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus (also referred to as "H1N1 Influenza," "Novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus," or "swine flu") is a type of influenza (flu) virus that causes respiratory disease that can spread between people. While most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment, hospitalizations and deaths from infection with this virus have occurred. Spread of H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose

The symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 influenza. If you are sick or think you have H1N1 influenza infection, please contact your healthcare provider.

What can I do to protect myself and others from getting sick?

H1N1 vaccines are now available through your health care providers’ office. People can contact their health care providers for vaccination schedules and information. It is also important to get vaccinated for the seasonal flu. In addition, one should practice the following prevention steps to avoid contracting or spreading the H1N1 virus:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Stay home if you are sick. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.

If you or a family member experience any of the following warning signs, seek immediate medical care.

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

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • 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

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
  • Flu like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Swine Flu Hotline


CA Dept of Public Health:
Phone: (888) 865-0564
Toll-Free (available in 11 languages)
Stanislaus:
Phone: (209) 558-8872

Public Information


Faith Community


Travel Information


  • Risk of Swine Flu Associated with Travel to Affected Areas
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