Understanding Influenza A (H1N1)

What is H1N1?

A respiratory illness that is similar to that of seasonal flu

May be spread from human to human through air droplets or contaminated materials

Formally known as swine flu, it is not caused by eatingpork or pork products that have been properly cooked

What are the Symptoms?

Fever usually higher than 101F, chills Sore throat Body and muscle aches Dry cough Runny nose Tiredness and weakness Diarrhea and vomiting

Call your healthcare provider for advice if any

symptoms become severe.

If swine flu is in your area, your healthcare provider may have you tested.

Testing will be based on current PA Department of Health recommendations.

Remember!

Your physician will determine appropriate treatment measures

You may ease the symptoms by: drinking lots of fluids such as water

and juice following a light diet that includes

soups getting plenty of rest asking your health care provider

about acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or other medications for fever and pain

How is H1N1 Treated?

Take Steps to ProtectYourself and Others

Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw away the tissue and wash your hands

If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow!

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use alcohol wipes, gel or hand sanitizer

Stay home when you first feel sick or until your fever and cough are gone

Clean contaminated surface areas with a disinfectant

Protecting Others

Do not greet with handshakes, hugs or kisses

Do not share food, utensils, drinking glasses, or a toothbrush with others

Protecting OthersFrom Viruses

Protecting Yourself

Frequent hand-washing is most important.

You may also use a hand sanitizer gel or foam if you are unable to wash your hands.

Remember to wash your hands BEFORE: Eating or preparing food Caring for the sick Treating a wound

Remember to wash your hands AFTER: Going to the bathroom Coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose Using public transportation Touching objects not cleaned (computer, money, phone, keys,

etc. Visiting a sick person

Good Hand Hygiene

Prevention is the Key! Clean phones and high contact areas at

home and at work frequently

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

Avoid contact with sick persons or areas where flu has occurred

Avoid crowded places

Find healthy ways to deal with stress

Additional Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov

Pandemic Flu: www.pandemicflu.gov

WellSpan Health: www.wellspan.org1-877-848-8021 (Call Center)