How to protect yourself from swine flu

Though no cases have been reported in North Fulton, Forsyth or Gwinnett counties, precautions still should be taken against swine flu. Here are the facts on the virus.

A swine flu hotline that provides information and advice has been set up.

The number is 404-730-6522.

What is swine flu?

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs cause by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks happen regularly in pigs, and people do not normally get swine flu. However, human infections can and do happen in people who are around pigs. It is also possible for swine flu to pas from person to person. It is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the symptoms?

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 also reported diarrhea and vomiting. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying medical conditions.

How serious is infection?

Swine flu in humans can range from mild to sever. Between 2005 and January 2009, 12 cases of human swine flu were detected in the US with no deaths.

How long can a person with swine flu infect others?

People with the infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and for up to seven days following illness onset. Children, especially young children, might be contagious for longer.

Can I get it by eating pork?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food.

Protect yourself

According to the CDC, the common sense actions people can take to stay healthy include:

• Washing hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners/hand sanitizers are also effective.

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Avoiding close contact with sick people.

• Keeping sick children (and staff members) at home until their illness has run its course

– Courtesy Fulton County Health and Human Services Department of Health and Wellness – Division of Epidemiology, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.

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