Swine Flu

Protecting Yourself and Your Family*

The Respiratory Health Association encourages the public to observe good basic hygiene habits and stay informed during the current outbreak of swine flu in Mexico and the United States. Together, those are the best weapons available right now against infection.

Swine flu is a respiratory disease originating in pigs that has recently spread to humans in the United States, Mexico, Canada and Europe. Symptoms of swine flu are similar to the seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Swine flu is contagious and can be transmitted up to seven days after illness onset. To date, no cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Illinois, although it is likely cases will occur in Illinois.

No vaccine is currently available to protect against swine flu. There are everyday steps, however, 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 sanitizers 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.
• There is no need for the general public to wear masks. In some cases, masks may be recommended for health care workers and people (including family members) who come in close contact with swine flu patients.
  

If you experience symptoms of swine influenza, contact your healthcare provider to discuss possible treatments.

*This information obtained from IDPH, CDC and Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago.