A Guide to Seasonal Flu and Novel H1N1 Flu
Seasonal Influenza
What is it?
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs that is caused by Influenza virus occurring usually in the winter months. Spreads from person to person.
What are the symptoms?
Fever (usually high), fatigue, headache, dry cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, sore muscles. Some, especially children, may also have stomach problems and diarrhea. Cough can last two or more weeks.
How long can a sick person spread it to others?
For healthy adults, from one day before getting sick up to five days
after getting sick.This can be longer in children and those with underlying health issues.
Novel H1N1 Influenza
What is it?
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs that is caused by Influenza virus. This is a new virus to humans that has potential to cause increased illness. May infect the G.I. tract in addition to the respiratory tract. May happen at a different time of year than Seasonal Flu. Spreads from person to person.