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Swine flu (H1N1 virus)


Most people who get the H1N1 swine flu virus will have a mild flu-like illness that does not require a doctor's visit or antiviral medications. In these cases, it's best to stay at home until you have had no fever (without the use of fever-reducing medications) for at least 24 hours. Be sure to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading the virus.

People who are at higher risk for complications if they develop the flu:

  • Children younger than 5 years old

  • People 65 and older

  • Pregnant women

  • People who have

  • Cancer;

  • Blood disorders (including sickle cell disease);

  • Chronic lung disease (including asthma or obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]);

  • Diabetes;

  • Heart, Kidney or liver disorders;

  • Neurological disorders and neuromuscular disorders (including muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis);

  • Weakened immune systems (including people with AIDS).