Serious Swine Flu Symptoms

• The seasonal flu is pretty harsh on its own, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the swine flu is serious enough to seek immediate medical help when children are having breathing issues and blue-toned skin. Children who aren't interactive and aren't drinking fluids, act irritable, or have a rash with fever, will need to be checked out. Adults who experience breathing troubles, confusion, dizziness, chest and stomach pressure, and vomiting should seek medical treatment. For both adults and children, those who appear to be getting better, but then take a turn for the worse should seek treatment.
  
  

Prevention

• Prevention of swine flu centers on soap-and-water hand washing or the use of an alcohol-based sanitizing hand rub. Clean hands are one of the top ways to prevent the spread of the flu. Don't touch your mouth, nose or eyes if possible. Stay home if you have any flu symptoms and remain at home for at least 24 hours past when you stop having a fever. Avoid crowds, and carry tissues and hand sanitizers when you do have to go out, especially in a group setting.
  
  

Vaccine

• There are two H1N1 vaccines available, just like the seasonal flu vaccine. There are shots with the inactive virus for those older than 6 months old and those who are pregnant, and there are nasal sprays with the active virus for those 2 to 49 years of age (does not include pregnant women). Those who should get a swine flu vaccine include women who are pregnant, caregivers of babies younger than 6 months of age, those 25 to 64 years old with medical conditions, and those 6 months to 24 years of age.