Swine Flu (H1N1) and Senior Citizen Health Care Concerns

Swine Flu and the Elderly

Experts share insights on ways seniors can protect themselves against swine flu.

If I follow the standard flu precautions will they help me avoid swine flu?

Yes they should, say the experts. The CDC recommends:

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then throw the tissue away.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home if you get sick and limit your contact with others.
• Get the H1N1 swine flu vaccine.

What are the warning signs that I may need emergency medical care for swine flu?

If you do get infected by the H1N1 virus, you may be sick for a week or longer, reports the CDC. They suggest staying home from work for at least seven days after symptoms begin, or until you've been symptom-free for 24 hours. If you experience any of these signs while having the flu, the CDC suggests seeking urgent medical care:

• Problems breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough