H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Symptoms

Symptoms may be similar to seasonal flu, which include fever and chills, cough, headache, fatigue, and lack of appetite. Some people are experiencing vomiting and diarrhea as well. Visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/index.htm for additional information.

If you are uncertain of whether your symptoms represent swine flu, please contact Sindecuse Health Center at 269-387-3287. Many symptoms can be treated by healthcare professionals through phone advice.

Length of time a person can be contagious

The period when an infected person is contagious depends on age, health of an individual, and the specific virus that is circulating. People infected with seasonal influenza and novel H1N1 virus may be able to infect others from one day prior to becoming ill and for approximately 5 to 7 days after the onset of symptoms. Those individuals with weakened immune systems may be contagious for time periods longer than a week.

Transmission

“Swine flu” is spread the same as other types of influenza. Influenza virus is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. Transmission can occur when droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person are propelled (generally up to three feet) through the air. People may become infected by touching areas where viruses are deposited and then touch their nose or mouth.

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) vs. a cold

In general, swine flu symptoms would be more severe than a common cold and include fever and chills, extreme fatigue, intense muscle aches, and cough that may lead to sudden respiratory changes and complications. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems and mainly involve a stuffy or runny nose, feeling tired, or a cough.

During the early onset of illness, it may be difficult to determine whether you have a cold or flu based on symptoms alone. Self-isolation is recommended with the onset of symptoms. You may consider contacting a Sindecuse health professional at 269-387-3295 when medical advice is needed. A triage nurse will be available to review your symptoms, address questions, and schedule an appointment when necessary. Sindecuse Health Center clinicians will take your health history and may use lab tests to help differentiate between an illness due to influenza and the common cold. Testing will be carried out according to recommendations received from the CDC.

Testing to diagnose H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Sindecuse Health Center will comply with Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) guidelines for testing during the novel H1N1 outbreak. The MDCH is currently limiting confirmation testing for influenza to the following groups:

• Hospitalized patients with severe influenza-like illness (ICT patients)
• Patients with influenza-like illness of an unusual presentation
• Pregnant women with severe influenza-like illness
• Outbreaks or clusters of influenza-like illness as requested by local or state health authorities
• Influenza related deaths

Sindecuse Health Center clinicians may use a combination of rapid flu testing, available at Sindecuse, and clinical history to make a clinical diagnosis of influenza.

What supplies should I have at home to be prepared for an influenza event?

• Thermometer
• Soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Disposable gloves
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Bleach for disinfecting
• Tissues
• Surgical masks
• Clear fluids or sports drinks
• Nonprescription stomach reliever, cough, and cold remedies
• Two-week supply of food and water

Some of these items may be purchased at Sindecuse Health Center Pharmacy:

Flu Packets
Those who like to be prepared may want to purchase some illness-related items in advance. Flu Packets are available to help take care of symptoms associated with influenza.

You can pick up a Flu Packet at the Sindecuse Pharmacy for $15. Flu Packets contain pain- and fever-reducing medicine and the following:

• Tylenol Equivalent or Ibuprofen (reduces pain and fever)
• Mucus Relief PE (relieves nasal, sinus, and chest congestion)
• Robitussen DM Cough Syrup (control coughing)
• Thermometer

Flu Packets (as listed above) without Tylenol Equivalent or Ibuprofen are available for $13.

How will I know if hours of operation change at Sindecuse Health Center during an influenza event?

You will find news and other updates on Sindecuse Health Center’s Web site at www.sindecuse.com. If you have specific questions, please call Sindecuse Health Center at 269-387-3287.

The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician. Contact your healthcare provider if you have concerns regarding your health.