What Should I Do if I Think I Have H1N1?

There have been H1N1 influenza cases in our area and many people are concerned about this new illness. The CDC has determined that this new H1N1 virus is contagious and spreading from person to person like the seasonal flu. Are you worried that you or a loved one might have H1N1 Flu? Take this self-assessment to learn more about the H1N1 Flu.

What To Look For

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza are similar to symptoms of the seasonal influenza that occurs every winter. The symptoms can include:

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Runny/stuffy nose

Body aches
Headaches
Chills
Fatigue

For more information on the H1N1 Flu,
take the online self-assessment.

Most cases of H1N1 influenza have been relatively mild and people have recovered at home without treatment. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed on this page, you should stay home until your fever is absent for at least 24 hours and you feel much better. Aspirin should be avoided in children and adolescents. Acetaminophen (tylenol) or ibuprofen (motrin) can be used to lower fever and relieve some of the symptoms of flu. Specific influenza medications are typically used only in patients with, or at risk of developing, severe illness.

When Should I Go To The Hospital?

If you have serious underlying conditions such as heart failure, lung disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or immunosuppression you may need medical attention. You should also seek medical care if you feel very ill and have any of the following symptoms: (click bar to expand)

Children with any of the below warning signs should seek emergency care

Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish or gray skin color
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

Adults with any of the below warning signs should seek emergency care

Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain
Bluish or gray skin color
Severe or persistent vomiting or dehydration
Confusion or lethargy
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

To keep from spreading H1N1 influenza to others, you should stay home and not go to work or school. If you must leave home, you should stay at least five to six feet away from other people. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve rather than covering your cough with your hand. Also remember to wash your hands whenever you touch contaminated surfaces or body secretions. You may help protect others by wearing a mask at home and around others.

Before returning to regular activities please make sure you have no fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications and you feel significantly better.

Stay Healthy

To limit possible exposure and transmission of the flu, we encourage you to wash your hands often, cough into your sleeves and isolate yourself or family member if flu symptoms arise.

H1N1 Flu