H1N1 Virus: Common Symptoms & Precautions

• Fever, moderately high, but unlike seasonal flu, can be absent in some cases too
• Non productive Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Body ache
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue/tiredness that can be extreme
• Nausea/diarrhoea
• Signs of a more serious swine flu infection might include pneumonia and respiratory failure

The deadly Swine Flu has reached the Indian shores following the global outbreak and now, claimed many lives. However, Swine Flu is certainly one of those diseased where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are five tips for you to keep away from the pandemic.

• If you think you have the H1N1 virus, stay at home and avoid traveling to public places like school and offices; seek medical care IMMEDIATELY.
• Wash your hands frequently: Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, for at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.
• Get enough sleep: Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.
• Drink sufficient water: Drink 8 to10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.
• Always try to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue while coughing or sneezing to avoid passing on infection of any kind to others around you.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Try and maintain contact with ill persons or someone who is showing symptoms of the flu.
• Boost your immune system: Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.
• Keep informed: The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.