ROUTINE HYGIENE CAN LIMIT EXPOSURE TO SWINE VIRUS

WHAT IS SWINE FLU?

Human cases of swine influenza virus infection have been identified in the United States, and several cases have been reported in Texas. Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type-A influenza viruses. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen.

SYMPTOMS OF SWINE FLU

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include fever higher than 100 degrees, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting.

The federal Centers for Disease Control based in Atlanta is working with officials in states where human cases of swine flu have been identified, as well with heakth officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO STAY HEALTHY

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person to person through coughing or sneezing.

There are everyday actions you can take to stay healthy:


*Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

*Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.

*Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

*Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

*If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. You may contact your health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza tersting or treatment is needed.