H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Flu) has been identified in a number of countries around the world, including Australia. The symptoms of the Human Swine Flu are the same as those for the normal winter flu, and so far have been relatively mild.
The latest up to date information on Human Swine Flu from the Victorian Government can we found at http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/
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Normal Winter Flu (influenza)
The following information is adapted from the Royal Childrens Hospital fact sheet. Click on the sneezy boy to go directly to the fact sheet.
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Influenza, commonly called 'the flu', is an infection caused by the influenza virus. It affects the nose, throat, lungs and other parts of the body.
Signs and Symptoms
Flu in children usually causes at least two or three of the following symptoms:
A fever that starts suddenly
Aches and pains or headache
Cough, sore throat or noisy breathing (coup)
low energy
Stuffy or runny nose
Nausea, vomitting or diarrhoea
How is it spread
Flu is very infectious. It can spread through the air by coughing and sneezing as well as by hands, cups and other objects that have been in contact with an infected person's mouth or nose. Good hygiene habits can greatly reduce the chance of getting the flu or passing it to others.
Treatment
Plenty of bed rest, drink lots of fluids and paracetamol if needed to help any pain or discomfort. Do NOT give aspirin. Do not send your child to day care or school. Antibiotics are not helpful for the flu and will not be prescribed unless your child also has a bacterial infection. If there are any concerns consult your family doctor.
Should I get Vaccinated?
Talk to your family doctor, it may still be worthwhile getting this year's influenza vaccination (up until the end of October) if you or your children have not had it. The vaccination is still the best way of preventing the flu.
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