The CDC has confirmed 109 cases of Swine flu in the U.S. and states have reported several more, prompting the Department of Health and Human services to declare a Public Health Emergency. While government officials try to halt this outbreak, what do you need to know?
Check out CNN's extensive swine flu Q&A to learn about past swine flu outbreaks, why health officials are concerned, and the preventive measures you can take, plus more. Some quick facts:
- Swine wine influenza, or flu, is a contagious respiratory disease that
affects pigs. It is caused by a type-A influenza virus. Outbreaks in
pigs occur year-round.
- Humans aren't usually infected and researchers have yet to determine the cause behind this outbreak.
- Symptoms are very similar to the common flu: fever, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, etc.
- Swine flu is contracted the same way the flu is: If an infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus passes. Or if you touch something with the virus on it, then touch your eyes or mouth.
- To prevent it: wash hands, avoid close contact with people that are sick and touching surfaces that may be dirty.
More info:
Bloomberg.com tackles similar questions, from flu vaccinations to how to tell if your child is sick.
Head to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for their key facts on swine flu.
The Plain Dealer asks the question on everyone's mind: Is this the next global flu epidemic?
What lessons we can learn from SARS and the bird flu.
Also check out Brett's post "Are You Worried About Your Kids?" and let us know how freaked out you think us parents should get over this.
