Swine Flu Information

What is it?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs that doesn’t normally impact humans.  When it does, however, it is contagious and is currently spreading from human to human.  This typically occurs the same way as seasonal flu - by coming in contact with infected people who are coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include: 

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Body Aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.  In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infections in people.  Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

When to see a doctor

Take this condition seriously, as swine flu varies from mild to severe.  If you feel sick, see your primary care physician or visit the health care clinic. 

Prevention

If you feel sick, you may need to limit your contact with others as with any other form of flu.  Avoid spreading germs by:

• Not touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Covering your nose and mouth with tissue when you cough or sneeze (and then throwing that tissue out!)
• Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, or using alcohol-based hand cleaners.

Source: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm

Further Resources

http://www.cdc.gov

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidance/

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us

Contact Information

TAMUK, Health Care Clinic  361-593-2904

Texas Department of State Health Services  1-888-963-7111