About H1N1 - symptoms, prevention & care
To view Alberta Health Services Influenza Self-Care brochure, click here.
The H1N1 influenza virus is thought to be spread from person to person in the same way as seasonal influenza where transmission occurs predominantly through coughing or sneezing. Indirect transmission can also occur through self-inoculation after contact with surfaces and objects contaminated with the virus from infected persons.
Symptoms
- Fever (100.4º Fahrenheit or 37.8º Celsius or greater)
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
Some people have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms.
How to reduce the spread of Influenza
- Clean hands frequently, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for 15-20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. When done correctly, this is the single most effective way to reduce the spread of infections. Download the hand washing poster here.
- Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after shaking hands or touching hard surfaces like counters and door handles or other surfaces that may harbour influenza and other viruses.
- Keep common surfaces clean and disinfected.
Other steps to keep healthy include:
Healthy eating
Maintaining an active lifestyle
Getting enough rest and sleep
If you’re sick or have symptoms of respiratory illness
- Stay home and limit unnecessary contact with others.
- If your symptoms worsen (shortness of breath, dehydration, worsening fever, cough or weakness) contact your doctor, the U of C Wellness Centre at 403.210.WELL or HEALTHLink Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.
How to care for someone at home who is ill with H1N1
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/guidance-orientation-05-03-eng.php
