Mannington Township School

Swine Flu Information

What are the symptoms of swine flu?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue (tiredness)

Is this swine flu contagious?

Yes. This virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.

How do you catch swine flu?

Spread of swine flu can occur in three ways:

• Through contact with infected pigs.
• Through contact with a person with swine flu. Human-to-human spread of swine flu has been documented also and is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu. Flu is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• Through touching something with the flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

What can I do to prevent myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that can cause respiratory illnesses like flu. Things you can do to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses include:

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or your shirt sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. Make sure that it is at least 60% alcohol.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.