California Hospitals on the Frontlines of Care During This Flu Season

Prevention

During this important seasonal and H1N1 flu period, we must all share the responsibility for staying healthy. The CDC and the California Department of Public health recommend following some simple prevention tips. As California continues to receive more H1N1 vaccines every day, you can find vaccination locations in your area at www.Flu.gov.

Signs and Symptoms

Here are the general signs and symptoms of the H1N1 flu to look for:

For adults

The common symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, chills, headache, body aches and fatigue. Diarrhea and vomiting may also occur. If you have these symptoms, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. Stay home and away from other people to prevent the spread of the virus. You will likely feel better within a week.

More serious symptoms to watch for include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in your chest or abdomen; sudden dizziness; severe or persistent vomiting; or if your flu-like symptoms improve and then return with fever and cough. If you exhibit these signs, please call your doctor immediately.

For children

The symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches and fatigue. These will persist for five to seven days. Recommended care includes keeping your child at home, drinking plenty of liquids and getting lots of rest.

More serious symptoms to watch for in children include fast breathing or trouble breathing, bluish or gray skin color, not waking up or interacting well, severe or persistent vomiting, and being so irritable your child doesn’t even want to be held. Please call your doctor immediately if your child exhibits any of the symptoms.