Information for parents and caregivers, pregnant moms and child care providers

Swine flu is a type of flu virus that causes respiratory symptoms that can spread between people. So far, most Americans have had mild illness, but some have had more severe illness. Young children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases like asthma, diabetes or heart disease may have a higher risk for complications.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Body Aches
• Headache
• Chills and fatigue
• Occasionally vomiting and diarrhea

How to protect yourself  – teach your children these rules too!

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds
• Cough and sneeze into a tissue – immediately dispose of the tissue
• Stay at least six feet away from people who are sick
• If there are confirmed cases in your community, stay away from malls, movie theaters or other places where there are large groups of people.

What to do if you or your  child is sick

• Unless you need medical attention, stay home. Do not go to school, child care programs or work.
• Drink lots of fluids
• Rest
• Stay away from others who are not sick
• Keep tissues and a trash bag within reach

If you develop any of these symptoms, seek medical care

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluid
• Extreme irritability
• No urination or tears
• Symptoms improved but then return

For more information:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/swineflu
• For concerned parents and caregivers: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/parents.htm
• For pregnant women: www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/pregnancy
• For pregnant women: www.amchp.org/H1N1
• For child care providers: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/childcare.htm
• For clinicians and health professionals: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidance
• www.pandemicflu.gov
• www.hhs.gov
• www.who.int/en