Things to Know About the Swine Flu

The outbreak of a new strain of H1N1 influenza virus in April 2009, dubbed "swine flu," created great concerns about a global pandemic, although the virus only resulted in a few well-publicized deaths that year. No evidence exists that suggests the new swine flu is any more dangerous than the seasonal flu. However, experts are concerned that this version of the flu may be the harbinger of more virulent strains, so you should keep a few things in mind about the virus.

Take Precautions

• To avoid contracting swine flu, you should take the kind of precautions you would take to avoid the seasonal flu. Wash your hands as often as possible using soap and water or alcohol-based hand-sanitizers. Clean surfaces around the house that people touch often to prevent the transmission of the flu-causing germs. Don't visit someone who is ill, and avoid areas or people who have recently been exposed to a swine flu outbreak.

Symptoms Should Be Taken Seriously

• Call a doctor if an elderly person, child or someone with a weak immune system shows sudden flu symptoms, such as chills, aches and fever. Flu is especially risky for these groups, who are more likely to die from the virus than a person with a stronger immune system. A severe flu infection can cause difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness and vomiting.

Avoid the Emergency Room

• Don't go to the emergency room if you can help it. Going to the emergency room could spread the virus to other people who also are vulnerable to sickness. Ask the patient's physician to evaluate the patient over the phone and call in a prescription. However, if the person is experiencing an urgent emergency, you should not avoid the emergency room for this reason.

Contingency Plans are Important

• Ask your employer what kind of contingency plans the company has in case of a flu pandemic. Also, you may want to take steps to keep enough food in the house to eat for a week if you're concerned a swine flu pandemic will infect your community.

Stay Informed

• Visit the government's flu website for news and information on flu outbreaks so you can stay prepared and informed.