Swine Flu Treatment

The swine flu is going by several names: the 2009 swine flu, the H1N1 flu, the 2009 H1N1 flu or virus and the novel H1N1 flu. It emerged in spring 2009 and quickly became an international phenomenon. In June 2009, the World Health Organization dubbed it a pandemic. The virus has two swine flu genes and one gene each of human and bird flu. The nature of the 2009 H1N1 virus makes it less predictable than influenza seen before. However, the same preventative measures apply (importantly, frequent hand-washing), as well as approaches to treatment.

Before Falling Ill

• Preparation for flu is advised, since once you get sick, you won't be going out. Stock up on basic supplies: tissues, alcohol-based hand rubs, over-the-counter medicine, thermometer. You might also want to buy some facial masks.

After Infection: Protecting Others

• Those infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus need to avoid contact with others as much as possible, including staying home. Infected people can spread the virus up to one day before they feel sick and for a week afterward. Children and people with compromised immune systems may spread it for even longer. If you have flu-like symptoms but haven't seen a doctor, stay home.

  While you are sick, you must practice careful hygiene to avoid infecting your family. Wash your hands every time you cough. Sneeze or cough into a tissue or your elbow. If family members are at high risk for flu complications --- they possess certain medical conditions; for instance, pregnancy, diabetes or heart problems --- these measures become urgent and you should consider wearing a mask.

After Infection: Treatment

• Most of the treatment for the 2009 H1N1 virus involves coping with symptoms until your body rebounds. If you are at high risk for serious complications from the flu or already have a severe flu requiring hospitalization, you may be prescribed antiviral drugs. These inhibit the reproduction of the virus in your body. The CDC has recommended zanamivir (Relenza) or oseltamirvir (Tamiflu).

  Sometimes bacterial infections occur when a person gets the flu. Antibiotics will be prescribed for such infections (they will not fight the flu).

  As with any flu, resting and replacing fluids lost to dehydration are are important measures. As far as over-the-counter medications, don't give aspirin to kids or teens. Check cold and flu medicines you buy to make sure they don't have acetylsalicylic acid. Products containing ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be taken by children older than 5. Consult your doctor before giving flu or cold medicine to children 4 or younger. For children under 2, the CDC recommends using a cool-mist humidifier and a suction bulb to clear mucus.

  For everybody else, use naproxen, ibuprofen and acetaminophen to bring down fevers and use cold and flu medications to relieve nasal and respiratory symptoms. None of these actually will get rid of the flu. Consider yourself contagious until you have had no fever for at least 24 hours without taking any over-the-counter medication or for a week after you first had symptoms, whichever is longer.

  Some symptoms mean it's time for a sick person to get immediate medical help. The CDC lists difficulty breathing, chest pain, purple or blue lips, vomiting and inability to keep liquids down, dehydration (dizziness, no urination, no tears in an infant), seizure, confusion, unresponsiveness or less responsiveness. Seek emergency medical assistance.