Q: What are the symptoms of swine flu?
A: They are pretty much the same as the “normal” flu: headache, body aches, sore throat, runny nose, cough or respiratory symptoms, diarrhea, and vomiting. The most important symptom is fever (at least 38C or 100F). If you do not have a fever, then you most likely do not have the swine flu. Of course, if you do have a fever, it still does not mean that you have this flu variant. The only way to be sure is go get checked.

Q: Am I at risk of getting the swine flu?
A: Young children, pregnant women, and obese individuals may have a slightly higher risk of acquiring the swine flu. Individuals whose immune system may be weaker than normal (such as those who have another condition) may also be at a higher risk. If you belong to these groups, then yes, you may be at risk of getting the swine flu.

Q: Will a mask keep me safe from swine flu?
A: Not really, and definitely not if you do not practice good hygiene. Experts say that masks, even the high-filtration ones, will have very little benefit. You will be better off washing your hands a lot.

The current strain of swine flu originates from Mexico and is said to be different from the previous ones that we have encountered. In Mexico, it has been reported that 81 people have died from the disease and that more than 1,000 people are currently infected with it.

Swine flu, as the name implies, is transferred from infected pigs to humans. Humans who contract the disease exhibit the normal signs of flu – fever, respiratory problems, fatigue, and the like. However, the degree of the symptoms is more intense and can lead to death.

While the majority of reported cases are in Mexico, other cases have already been reported in other countries, particularly the United States. Texas, California and Kansas have reported cases and there are some suspected cases in New York City too. Recently, an airline crew member of the British Airways has been taken to an isolation unit as he disembarked from a flight from Mexico. He showed symptoms of swine flu.

If you have not been traveling, then you are most likely safe but you never really know who has been where so the best course to take would be to remain alert for such symptoms and immediately report it to the authorities if you suspect that you or anyone else has the disease.

Allow enough time in the morning to get to the airport on time without worry. When traveling to and from your destination, bring an extra bag with a change of clothes in the event that your luggage is lost. Throughout your trip, always have a change of clothes with you, and bring a supply of tissue in case there’s none available where you are going.

Indeed, you never know when the symptoms may arise. Better to have time allowance so that you will not miss your flight.

When planning your trip, consider driving if possible. Some people may feel more comfortable traveling by car, because they can stop when necessary to use a restroom or take a break. There is a greater sense of control when traveling by car, as you don’t have to be on someone else’s schedule or timetable.

I would prefer to drive as well. This means you can stop anytime you need to. More so, you will be with people you know, avoiding embarrassing situations.

Divide your medication(s) into two containers; keep one in your hotel room and one with you at all times.

This is something that you should always remember. Again, you never know when you might need to take your medication.

More tips in the IFFGD web site.

Photo courtesy of velaia