| Novel H1N1 Flu: Symptoms |
The symptoms of novel flu are similar to the symptoms of the regular seasonal flu and include:
• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Possibly diarrhea along with respiratory symptoms
• Possibly vomiting along with respiratory symptoms
Most people who have become ill with novel flu have recovered without requiring medical treatment, but you may want to see your local health care provider to be tested for this specific flu. There are symptoms, however, that demand you should seek emergency medical care.
Emergency Warning Signs in Children:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing or absence of urination, or in infants, a lack of tears when they cry
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Emergency Warning Signs in Adults:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Purple or blue discoloration of the lips
• Severe or persistent vomiting and inability to keep liquids down
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing or absence of urination
• Seizures (for example, uncontrolled convulsions)
People with novel flu are potentially contagious one day before having symptoms, while they have symptoms, and possibly for up to 7 days after they become ill. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer than 7 days. Some viruses and bacteria can live two to eight hours on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, telephones, and desks.
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