Swine Influenza (swine flu) is
a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A
influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do
not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen.
Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from
person-to-person.
What are the signs and
symptoms of swine flu in
people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are
similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include
fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache,
chills and 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 infection in people. Like
seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening
of underlying chronic
medical conditions.
So far
there
are 91 laboratory confirmed cases of swine
flu in humans in the
United States, and 1 death. There are currently
no confirmed cases in Maryland.
Below are everyday actions
that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause
respiratory illnesses like influenza.
 |
Cover your nose and
mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue
in the trash after you use it. |
|
Wash your hands often
with soap and water, especially
after you
cough or
sneeze.
Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. |
|
Avoid touching your
eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way |
|
Try to avoid close
contact with sick people. |
If you get sick with influenza,
CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit
contact with others to keep from infecting them. You should also
contact your health care provider.
