How do you get it? What are its symptoms? Can you take something to prevent or cure it? Can you get it from eating pork? Should you wear a face mask? Here are answers to those questions, and more, that you can pass along to your concerned employees.
Taken from information distributed by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Infectious Disease Society of America:
Why is it called “swine flu”?
The disease is a common respiratory ailment in pigs but isn’t usually contracted by humans, except in rare cases of people working with pigs. About 2% of the pigs that get swine flu will die from it.
Where did this strain come from?
Most scientists believe it’s a new strain that’s a mixture of genetic material from pigs, birds and humans. The pigs serve as a sort of laboratory where the material gets mixed and becomes the new strain.
How is it spread among people?
If someone who has swine flu coughs, the expelled microscopic respiratory droplets carry the disease to anyone who comes in contact with them or who touches a surface where droplets have landed, and then touches the mouth or eyes.
Can I catch it from eating pork?
No. There are no known cases of swine flu from eating pork, because (a) pigs used for food are monitored for flu and removed if they have it and (b) cooking kills the swine flu virus.
What are the common symptoms in humans?
Fever, fatigue, lack of appetite and coughing. Some sufferers develop a runny nose, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhea. The various symptoms are exhibited one to four days after infection.
I recently returned from Mexico. Is it likely I have it? How would I know?
If you don’t develop the symptoms within a week of your return, you’re probably in the clear.
What if I think I have it? Should I call a doctor?
If you have the symptoms and have been to Mexico or have had close contact with someone who has, call your doctor.
How can I protect myself? A face mask? A vaccine?
In the U.S., cases are still rare, so there’s no need to wear a mask. And there is no vaccine immediately available, though one is in the works. Your best bets are to wash your hands often and cover your mouth when you cough.