Rockford Health System is working closely with the Winnebago County Health Department on the latest developments regarding Swine Flu.  We want you to know that we are committed to providing you with the most accurate information available.

What is Swine Flu?

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person also.

What are the symptoms of Swine Flu?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How is Swine Flu spread?

The flu is spread from person-to-person when someone who has the flu sneezes, coughs or even talks. The flu virus is put into the air and may be inhaled by anyone close by. Occasionally a person may become infected by touching something with the virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can I protect myself and my family from Swine Flu?

You can help protect you and your family from this flu by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based hand cleansers are also effective.
• Avoiding people who are ill.
• Staying home from work or school if you are sick.
• Using tissue when you cough, sneeze or spit, and dispose of the tissue in a covered trash bin.
• Keeping hands away from your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Cleaning shared space more often such as phone receivers, keyboards, steering wheels and office equipment.
• Refraining from sharing personal items such as forks, spoons, toothbrushes and towels.

Can Swine Flu be treated?

Yes.  This swine flu virus is susceptible to certain antiviral drugs used to treat flu infections (oseltamivir, or Tamiflu, and zanamivir, or Relenza). For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). If you become ill and are diagnosed with influenza, your doctor can determine if you should take antiviral drugs.

How long can an infected person spread Swine Flu to others?

People with swine flu infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic or possibly for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact your health care provider particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have recently traveled, especially to those areas where swine flu has already been found. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed. If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.