Knowledge is power
May 6, 2009 -- Worried about coming down with swine flu (influenza A/H1N1)? Don't be a victim of mass hysteria. Instead, empower yourself with information and be on the lookout for symptoms of this viral illness.
World Health Organization cautions all to prepare for a pandemic
In assessing swine flu, the World Health Organization raised its alert level to 5; and that's one phase away from the swine flu being considered a pandemic, which is defined as a global outbreak of disease.
After the WHO's announcement of its phase 5 alert of the human form of swine flu, it seems as if the entire world is alarmed about influenza A/H1N1. But don't panic; instead, learn more about how to prevent H1N1 infection and know its symptoms.
Swine flu (influenza A/H1N1) symptoms
The following symptoms can indicate you've contracted influenza A/H1N1. After a 24 to 48 hour incubation period, the virus can leave you with:
-A fever
-Muscle pain, particularly back muscle pain
-An irritated throat
-Headaches
-Intense fatigue, possibly resulting from pain
-Difficulty breathing
-Dry and deep episodic coughing
-A runny nose
-Loss of appetite
-Diarrhea (rare)
-Nausea and vomiting (rare)
Information released by the World Health Organization warns that you may not be able to tell the difference between seasonal flu and influenza A/H1N1 without medical help so see your doctor if you suspect you may have contracted the virus.
Fighting off a cold or flu? Here's help:
-Is it a cold or flu? How to tell the difference
-Natural cold and flu relief
-Brand vs. generic cold medication
-Hand-washing 101
Read more about swine flu at our sister site, CanadianLiving.com. Click: swine flu is spreading. Here's what you can do
