Tips and Guidelines if You Become Sick

Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to those of seasonal influenza and include:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• body aches
• chills
• fatigue
• Diarrhea and vomiting may also be experienced. 

Contact your physician as soon as possible if you develop flu-like symptoms.

In anticipation of an increase in H1N1 flu cases this fall and winter, most health care providers and hospital emergency departments will not test to confirm whether an influenza-like illness is seasonal or caused by H1N1.  In addition, doses of anti-viral medications (such as Tamiflu) may be limited and reserved solely for those at increased risk for serious medical complications from H1N1.  Those affected by neuromuscular disease should let the treating health care professional know that they’re included among groups identified by the CDC as being at increased risk and, therefore, as high priority.  The same holds true if you live with and/or provide personal care for someone affected by neuromuscular disease. 

More information is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What Else Can You Do About the Flu?  Be prepared.  

• Make sure you have an adequate supply of prescribed medications on hand in the event you’re unable to leave the house because of illness.
• Make sure that your medicine cabinet is stocked with necessary health supplies – including fever reducing medications, a thermometer, hand-sanitizer for family members or roommates, etc.
• If you have young children at home or you care for someone with neuromuscular disease, start a list of friends and family members who would be willing to help you at home in the event you contract the flu.