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Iowa now has 73 confirmed cases of swine flu

By Steve Lombardi

The Iowa State Department of Health confirms there are 73 confirmed cases of swine flu in Iowa.

Key Messages About Swine Influenza

• The CDC has confirmed cases of a unique strain of swine influenza in the U.S. and in other parts of the world. None of the current cases have reported direct or remote exposure to swine.

• Spread of this swine influenza virus is thought to be occurring in the same way that seasonal influenza spreads, from person to person through coughing or sneezing. People may also become infected by touching something with influenza viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

• The symptoms of swine influenza in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people with swine influenza have also reported diarrhea and vomiting. Like seasonal influenza, swine influenza may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

• To help prevent illness:

o Avoid contact with ill persons.

o When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow.

o After you cough or sneeze, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand gel.

• If you think you are ill, avoid close contact with others as much as possible. Stay at home, do not go to work, school, or travel while ill. Seek medical care if you are severely ill (such as having trouble breathing).

• If you have recently visited Mexico or areas in the U.S. where swine influenza cases have been confirmed and develop swine influenza-like symptoms within seven to ten days after your return, it's important to consult your health care provider.

• Medical treatment is available for swine influenza. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious influenza complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work only if started soon after getting sick (best within two days of symptoms). Antiviral drugs must be prescribed by a medical provider. There are also over the counter medications that may provide symptomatic relief.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Steve Lombardi

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on May 27, 2009 (boomark / email).