WebMD News Watch: Dr. Smith's Swine Flu Q&A

First, let me thank you for all the great questions. I wanted to take the time to answer as many as them as I could. They really are quite insightful.

Anonymous said...: I believe someone asked how long the virus can live OUTSIDE the body. For instance, how long is a door knob toxic after someone with the flu sneezes into his/her hand and then touches the door knob?

Dr. Smith: 2 hours or longer ... if the surface is wet, then the virus might live a bit longer.

Anonymous said...: I did have the flu/cold but more flu like. Start to finish over three weeks, still a bit of cough left. Question is How would one know if it was swine flu? Is one a carrier? Should one be tested? And finally can one get it again? Traveled=Yes. sick = one week after traveling. Down Four days before feeling better. Southern climate, Caribbean, tropics. Signed Wondering
Dr. Smith: The only way to know if you have the swine flu is to get tested ... it's a swab. But there's no reason for you to be tested because you are no longer contagious from whatever you had. Good news for anyone that does get the swine flu is that they're now likely immune to that particular strain of the virus.
Anonymous said...: Would you suggest the wearing of a mask? I heard that the germ was so small that it could penetrate through a mask.
Dr. Smith: See my previous post on if you should wear a mask. But to your point, it's not true that a mask wouldn't help. But it's not likely necessary.
Anonymous said...: once a person recovers from a
flu like illness, is here any way to tell if it was swine flue?
I was in Mexico and many people were complaining of a very bad flu, head ache, muscle pain and a cough that persisted. Could they have had swine flu?
Dr. Smith: Once you've recovered, there really is no reason to know if you had the swine flu. The symptoms you describe are certainly consistently with the swine flu but after 7 days, if you're still not sick, then you have nothing to worry about.
Anonymous said...: I'm worried since my Tamiflu packet is 5 years old and we can't get any here so the local hospitals will depend on the stockpiled antivirals. How old are the U.S. Tamiflu and Relenza stocks (or what is their age range)? Tamiflu prescriptions give a 2-year expiration date; is any of the stockpile Tamiflu older than this? And have Tamiflu or Relenza efficacity beyond their expiration dates (and to what degree)?
Dr. Smith: The expiration on your Tamiflu is going to depend on when it was manufactured. But if it was at least 5 years ago, there is certainly the chance that it might have lost some of its effectiveness. I don't know how old the Tamiflu or Relenza is in the government's stockpile but I can assure you that they're tracking expiration dates so they don't send out old medication.
Anonymous said...: My son is 6 months with a cough, but no other symptoms like the swine flu and no fever. My 2 year old has a runny nose with a cough and no fever. I have a cough, stuffy nose, and lost my voice with no cough. Should we all get looked at for the swine flu?
Dr. Smith: At this point, none of you have symptoms consistent with the swine flu, so sounds like you have nothing to worry about.
Anonymous said...: My 6 month old son has a cough, my 2 year old has a cough and runny nose, I have a cough, stuffy nose, and lost my voice. Our symptoms began on Sunday and no one has had any fever. Should we get looked at for the swine flu?

Dr. Smith: Same as above ... your symptoms are not consistent with the swine flu. Check out WebMD's Swine Flu FAQ to learn all about swine flu symptoms and more.

Anonymous said...: Donna
My sister is leaving tomorrow for a Mexican vacation....Our entire family has tried to talk her out of doing this...with no luck. Dr. Smith, do you think this is as dangerous to her health as we do? Yes she has read the information and says she has as much chance of contracting this flu here in the United States as she would in Mexico. Your response would be much appreciated. Thank you.
Dr. Smith: There's certainly a risk and that's why the gov't has recommended against unessential travel. If she decides to go, keep in mind that the overwhelming majority of people who get the swine flu are recovering just fine. Thankfully, serious illness and deaths are very rare. We're still holding at 1 death in the U.S. At a minimum, your sister should call her doctor to see about getting antiviral medications, particularly if she has any other health conditions.
Anonymous said...: I have a bad cough, and for the last 4 days I have woken up with numbness in my hands. I dont feel anything for at least an hour. Are these symptoms of the swine flu?

Dr. Smith: Numbness is not a symptom of swine flu. I would suggest getting this checked out to see what might be going on.

Lesley said...: Lesley said I am planning a trip to Canada in July. Since we do not know what the situation will be, and because it is not always easy to get to a doctor while travelling, a doctor in Europe suggested it might be a good idea to buy one of the two antiviral drugs to keep at hand. It might be in short supply if things get bad. If I don't get the flu and have to throw the things out when they expire, well put it down to very good luck. What do you think?

Dr. Smith: That's really a question you need to pose to your doctor. For some people it's warranted to take antiviral medications if they're exposed to the swine flu. But you have to figure out what's right for you with your doctor. See my post on Swine Flu; Who's Most at Risk?

Mary said...: I am a 55 y.o. female with RA. I am due to take an immunosuppressant (rituxan) via I.V. on May 8th. Should I do this treatment or look for something else? I am due to travel to New Mexico then 3rd week in May.

Dr. Smith: You need to address this with your doctor. If you have severe RA, which I assume you likely do if you're taking Rituxan, then that treatment is vitally important to help prevent flares and possible disability down the road. You should talk to your doctor about whether you should have antiviral medications on hand.

Steve said...: If the W.H.O. has raised the pandemic level to Level 5, why are they not making the vaccines available right now at Dr.'s offices and clinics before we all get the flu and it's too late for a vaccine?

Dr. Smith: Because there is no swine flu vaccine unfortunately. It takes quite a bit of time to create a flu vaccine. As of yesterday, the CDC was saying that it might be available in September. Let's hope it's not needed by then but time will tell. They may decide to include it as one of the strains in this year's flu vaccine, which we typically start getting in November or so.

Anonymous said...: If I am scheduled for surgery (not an emergency) over the summer and a pandemic is declared, should I postpone the surgery (since hospitals won't be the safest place to be during the pandemic?

Dr. Smith: I can't accurately answer this question because I don't know nearly enough about your medical history or the surgery. You need to address this issue with your doctor.

Anonymous said...: How long do these types of things usually last is this the beginning of a year long or a month long or how long of an ordeal is this? And how is it going to stop. I know for the regular flu there is a "flu season" but we are well past that. And we know everyone is not going to follow the standards of staying home if they are sick.

Dr. Smith: Unfortunately, there is no "usual" when it comes to these things. They're all different. Let's hope with the upcoming summer (a time during which the flu is very unusual) and our vigilant efforts to prevent swine flu (you are being vigilant about washing your hands, right), that this outbreak will pass quickly. But at this point, we really just don't know.

Robert Oliveira said...: While the continued spread of Swine Flu (H1N1) is no laughing matter, I strongly believe that someone in an official government capacity needs to reign in the media outlets. At least one FOX affiliate in my part of the U.S. is providing sound bites which will only cause more fear and panic. Right now what we need is well-informed citizens who can take the lead in preventing the spread of the disease and sensational newsreporting isn't going to do it.

Dr. Smith: Robert, you hit the nail on the head about us, American citizens, leading the charge of preventing the spread of swine flu! The government can only do so much and they have admitted that their ability to contain the virus is quite limited. But yours isn't. Take every precaution with frequent handwashing and steer clear of anyone with flu-type symptoms. Keep alcohol-based hand gels or wipes around, particularly if you touch public places, like doorknobs, phones etc.

Anonymous said...: Since this is a new virus I know it will take time to develop and produce a vaccine. About how long will that probably take? When do you think will get the vaccine?
Dr. Smith: The earliest the CDC says is September. It actually takes months to develop even the annual flu vaccine that we hopefully all get. Maybe this outbreak will cause more people to get next year's flu vaccine since it is the most effective strategy for preventing the flu (that, and handwashing).
Anonymous said...: I have to fly to care for my parents this weekend. My mom is on remicade (sp?) which compromises her immune system. Should I wear a mask while travelling to prevent contracting the flu and possible passing it to her? I am flying from Dallas to Orlando. I am concerned about the time on the plane in the confined space - especially in light of VP Biden's comments this morning!

Dr. Smith: I completely understand your concern, but let me just put things in perspective. In total, there are just over 100 cases of confirmed swine flu in the U.S and one death. In an average flu season, 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 people die.

Anonymous said...: Can you provide anymore information on the age demographic that seems to be the most susceptible to this virus?

Dr. Smith: It's honestly a bit early in the outbreak in the U.S. to say for sure. But I suspect this will go the route of most flu viruses in that the very young and the very old are going to be most at risk of severe infections. For other high-risk groups, see my post on Swine Flu: Who's Most at Risk?


Anonymous said...: Who does the Swine Flu affect? Babies and the elderly? Or can anyone get it? If so, how many schools have closed because of this illness?
Dr. Smith: See my post on Swine Flu: Who's Most at Risk. As far as how many schools have closed, that number is changing all the time so I really couldn't tell you.



Anonymous said...: I was in Dallas/Ft. Worth from Monday 4/20 to Thursday 4/23. On Friday evening (24th) I started to get a sore throat. Saturday it got worse and I started having joint and muscle pain along with a "vice" like headache(is persistent to this day). Felt ill all weekend long, went to the Dr. on Monday...gave me a rapid strep test and pain relief for headache and sent me home. Dr. called Tuesday evening to see how I was, and I was actually starting to feel better. Now it is Thursday and my chest has become very heavy and I have a productive, yucky cough (and, still the headache. I have been working from home all week, which I feel so fortunate I can do that. Am a bit concerned it may be swine...now today, 16 yr old daughter has a bad sore throat...kept her home from school. I am feeling confused as to what I should do!

Dr. Smith: If you're confused, I'd suggest calling your doctor. A cold or strep throat is much more common than swine flu. It's important to get strep throat treated too, so that might be a reason to get your daughter into see the doctor if you think that's a possibility.

Paul E said...: What are the similarities / differences if any between the Swine Flu 2009 type H1N1 and the Spanish Flu of 1918 type H1N1?

Dr. Smith: Well, the viruses are different -- we know that at least. But unfortunately we don't know much more at this point. In 1918, the flu started out as mild and only later became very serious and widespread. Let's hope that today, our containment and flu prevention strategies that I hope everyone is being very vigilant about will help prevent this swine flu outbreak from going that same route.

Thanks for all the great questions and hopefully the information will help keep you calm during these uncertain times.

92 Comments:

Anonymous said...: If your child gets sick with symptoms of the flu, do you go to the pediatricians office, hospital, where? Is there a test for this flu strain? How are people being treated that suspect they may have it?; Apr 30, 2009 2:15:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Doc, I am 67 years old and I could tell you when the last time I had any type of Flu. Should I be worred? Also I have not heard anybody say what to do if you get it, like take asprin,drink lots of fluids, bed rest or what?; Apr 30, 2009 4:38:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Dr. Smith.
I am an Administrator of a preschool. One of my families is in Mexico this week. Should I exclude the child from attending school when she gets back on Monday? I need to be concerned about 140 other child at my Center. If the child is ok Monday and gets sick on Thursday then the child has exposed the whole school. Isn't the incubation period5 days? I need to act responsible for all my families.
Caring for children.; Apr 30, 2009 5:05:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I suffer from chronic neck and back pain. I treat it with Flexiril and ice. Too late I realized that recent aching (with fever) was some sort of flu. Ice made it far worse. Certainly there must be other strains of flu out there. I go for trigger point injections tomorrow...can my neurologist sort any of this out?; Apr 30, 2009 6:50:00 PM
katscorner said...: Hi Dr. Smith,
My question is this I have a daghter who is 16 with LQT syndrom she is on heart medication for the rest of her life and I have MS for over 20 years plus fibromyalgia, could you please tells me if we have to be extra careful not to get the swine flu?
Thank you for your time.; Apr 30, 2009 7:03:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hello Dr. Smith,

May I ask How long does it take to confirm a case of swine flu?

Thank you for your time and have a nice day.; Apr 30, 2009 8:30:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I am an American living in Japan. I am married to a Japanese man and we have a 18 month old son. My husband took the money he scraped up in saving to buy me and my son a ticket to California to see my family. We are not rich, so this purchase was a really big financial risk, but it's my birthday present, so it didn't seem like a waste. But my husband did forget to purchase flight protection insurance in case our flight gets canceled, and to lose all that money because of swine flu would be a big blow to both of us. So, I want to go ahead and go on this trip because I don't want to miss this chance to see my family or waste all my husbands hard earned money. But my main concern is that since my son is so young, he's more suseptible to getting swine flu. I've read all the precautions on how to protect yourself and your children, but I'm worried about being on an airplane confined with a bunch of people who make be sick with or carrying the virus with them for an 11 hour flight. I mean I can be careful and wash my hands 1,000 times, but no one can be perfect... I've ordered Tamiflu for me and my son to take along with us in case its needed. I just don't want to get there and then my son be stricken with the swine flu. Even the chances of him getting the flu or dying from it are slim, there's still that chance. If it were just me, I might have no problem with traveling, but its my son I'm worried about. What should I do?; Apr 30, 2009 8:31:00 PM
Anonymous said...: In the Pandemic of 1918, the flu began as a fairly mild flu and ramped up until it became deadly. Did those people who had the mild form of the flu develop any immunity to the more virulent type?; Apr 30, 2009 8:32:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi doctor smith I was wondering if it has been determined how long would it take for someone to experience symptoms if day get in contact with someone who may or do have da virus?; Apr 30, 2009 9:20:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Dr. Smith,
I am about 6.5 months pregnant, and I also have a 27 month old son (and my husband). Is there anything we can do besides the usual hand-washing, etc. to prevent us from catching this flu? Can we or should we be taking an anti-viral medication to ward it off, which I know my son did when he was exposed to chicken pox at one time? I am very worried about this affecting my son and our unborn baby. Thank you.; Apr 30, 2009 10:32:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Last Friday (April 24) I took my son (age 4)to the doctor because he was coughing and having a hard time breathing. The doctor gave him a diagnosis of pneumonia. They put him on an antibiotic and a strong inhaler. A week later, he still has a deep cough although it isn't nearly as often. I read that in children, pneumonia can be a sign of the swine flu. Should I get him tested for it?; Apr 30, 2009 10:35:00 PM
Anonymous said...: i am a 20 female with an insane amount of alergies, and a not so good amune system. My boyfriend recently came back from Isreal. I saw him shortly after his return. The day after he saw me he came down with flu like simptoms. He has recovered now, but i recently started having a fever, cough and body/head aches that make me not want to get out of bed. I live in VA. there have been no known cases yet here but could have my boyfriend have brought the swine flu back from Isreal? he was near jeruselam?; May 1, 2009 2:08:00 AM
Anonymous said...: Hi Doc,
This is an interesting anecdote on the piggy flu. A few of us have noticed that most of those with the flu outside of Mexico seem to have a much less severe illness. It also seems that these people either FLEW in and out of Mexico, or they were in contact with someone who did. Most people would think that flying might make one ill, but we think there is a positive connection here. Flying = Milder Flu? Is this possible?; May 1, 2009 2:49:00 AM
peggy1 said...: I am from Winnipeg Manitoba,Canada. I have had all the symptoms of tne Swine flu for a couple of days,and yesterday I went to my DR and she refused to test me for the virus, but did give me an antibotic that cover a range of things including new diseases. I guess Manitoba will never know if we have the Swine Flu here, since our Government has sent a directive to the doctors advising them refused to test anyone in their (doctors) office for the Swinf Flu. The only way we can be checked for the Swing Flu here, is by going to the Emgerency Dept with the symptoms. Pretty sad.; May 1, 2009 8:21:00 AM
Anonymous said...: A group of friends and myself have plans to travel to cancun in two weeks is there really any reason we should cancel our trip? We are taking precautions such as ramping our immune systems up...vitamin c, daily vitamins, airborne...things like that.; May 1, 2009 9:01:00 AM
Jordy said...: Some family returned from Mexico on Saturday. They are not sick but now my daughter (11 yrs old) is having some of the swine flu symptoms. Could my family be carriers of the virus and not get sick?; May 1, 2009 9:05:00 AM
Anonymous said...: This post has been removed by a blog administrator.; May 1, 2009 9:26:00 AM
Anonymous said...: is it possible for the swine flu virus to infect birds also?
ive read that the swine flu virus has 3 different kinds of strains,(our flu virus, the swine virus and the birds virus)..

its a scary thought that birds, if they are carriers will spread more of the virus?; May 1, 2009 9:36:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I have a mild sore throat, post nasal drip like cough and slight stuffiness should i be worried about swine flu?; May 1, 2009 4:16:00 PM
colettem51 said...: Dr. Smith, 1. I received a flu shot in 1976 that was for "swine flu." Does this give me some protection against H1N1 although it contains avian and human flu strains? Also, is the human flu strain something we have had flu shots for or have experienced? 2. According to a blogger, a dr prescribed antibiotics for when their only complaints (according to the blog) were symptoms of H1N1flu symptoms. Was that just a way to pacify the patient? I am under the belief that antibiotics are useless on viruses and meant to be used on bacterial infections?; May 1, 2009 5:09:00 PM
bmmoore said...: I went to my Dr and he told me I had strep. He did not do any tests just told me I had that "strep smell" and gave me some meds to take. I have a bad productive cough, lost most of my voice, and snuffy nose that tend to run from time to time. I don't have a fever but it appears that I have all of the other signs of this crappy flu. I'm not worried about having it but I am worried about giving it to my 3 month old son.
What do you think and how should I handle it from here. I am a paramedic so I probably will run into it in the field. I just don't want to give it to my family.
Any info would be great.
Thanks; May 1, 2009 5:11:00 PM
Anonymous said...: A family returned from Can Cun,Mexico 10 to 13 hours later had all three children attending school. "Was advised by family doctor, school nurese and school administration it was safe to return to school as long as the family had no symptoms". My concern is the incubation period. Do you agree with this advise?
Thank you,
Anonymous; May 1, 2009 7:09:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Dr. Smith,
I am convinced we've had the swine flu. My teenage grandson instantly recovered from all symptoms after taking a 24 hr. Zyrtex antihistamine for allergies. Is this possible? The rest of us remained sick for several days.; May 2, 2009 12:28:00 AM
Em's said...: I have had flu like syptoms. Extreem body fatigue, vomiting, diarreah, really bad headaches, body aches & skin sensitivity. I went to my doactor yesterday & she said to saty home for 4 -5 days and drink lots of fluids. She mentioned giving my the Tamiflu but then didnt...which i was a little confused about. She also didnt test me for the swine flu. Should she have done the test to make sure either way? She just said if sytoms get worse go to the er; May 2, 2009 3:30:00 PM
capitanjr said...: my child was diagnosed with influenza A, what is the difference between influenza A and swine flu.; May 3, 2009 12:17:00 AM
sandi said...: i have been feeling ill for awhile now. the doc say do not be worried.i have the common flue sytoms. i feel sick i are tired weak have had diarea should i be worried.; May 3, 2009 7:44:00 PM
sandi said...: but then i also have a case of relfux. or that is what they say.; May 3, 2009 9:17:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hello Dr. Smith,
My daughter was given some tamiflu to take and they put it in a capsule. The thing is, my daughter is only two and I'm afraid that she'll bite on the capsule so what are some things that i can mix it with to get her to take it. The pharmacist said to mix it with a chocolate syrup but my daughter is just not having it. Is there any other way that I can get her to take it?; May 3, 2009 11:07:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Is swine flu really the great problem that everyone is making it out to be, or is it just a classic case of mass hysteria? Everything that I've read says that swine flu is pretty much a short-lived, severe flu and it's outrageously limited.
I live in northern Indiana, and I have overheard at least ten different people express paranoid concerns about swine flu, including a man asking if Mexicans worked at my workplace, saying that one "can't be too careful."
Should someone take steps to reel in the media? Even the comments on this post show more or less that people are psyching themselves out, letting the media take control of their paranoia. Would this get as much air time if it was an epidemic of stomach flu?; May 4, 2009 10:06:00 AM
Anonymous said...: We're having a differce of opinion here about the hand sanitizers. the CDC refers to alcohol based sanitizers being effective. I already use non-alcohol benzalkonium cloride based hand sanitizers. I see no reason for me to buy the alcohol based ones and stop using the ones I have now. the point, I think is to keep your hands clean. I'm being told that I must use the alchohol based sanitizer because the CDC said so. When I trained diabetics on doing their blood level tests, alcohol was not concidered sufficient protection for HIV but benzalkonium cloride was. So whats the deal for swine flu?; May 4, 2009 5:26:00 PM
Anonymous said...: How high does the fever have to be before you see a doctor? My temperature is only about 99.5F but I feel sick and nauseous. Also a lot of body aches.; May 4, 2009 10:13:00 PM
budi said...: if we just infected by swine flu, what we should do?
because I watch on tv that until now there is no drug to fight this swine; May 5, 2009 2:48:00 AM
Anonymous said...: fooI was sick with fever, chills, severe fatigue, sorethroat, earaches, and headache, light sensitivity, and was unable to get outof bed the first 30hours, i felt so bad, the next day I went to an instant care center, at which time they checked my temp, which was normal, o2 saturation and b/p, all normal, they said my ears looked a little red, and of course my throat was red, and therefore, they decided that I was probably just having a bout with a sinus infection, so they placed me on augmentin. 875bid, and after a couple of days, I did feel better, but i now have a productive cough, and diarrhea, which I could have from the antibiotic, almost like c-diff at this point and I still have three more days of antibiotics to go. which brings up another question, if I have c-diff will it be ok to go untreated with flagyl, will itgo away without medication. but getting back to what I was talking about, I was very disturbed that the IC center did not do a swab for the flu, or for strept for that matter, if there is such concern for how many cases and where they are located then, when people have the symptoms then why are they not checking people? I work in a hospital with patient's receiving chemo and radiation, on predinisone, and neutropenic precation, I had a great concern for my patient's they gave me a work statement for only one day, which I took, for sure but when I went back to work, i STILL FELT FEVERISH, more like incredible hotflases, I would chill, and sometimes my temp was only 99.7, even though I felt like an inferno. but I guess I just wanted to say, I think that a lot of people have been seen in clinics and hospitals, that have not been tested and there may be more cases out there than truly known, I WAS ASKED IF i HAD TRAVELED OR BEEN AROUND ANYONE FROM MEXICO, THEY NEGLECTED TO ASK IF i HAD BEEN TO Ohio, or Indiana, which I had just returned 6 hours prior to starting to have flu like symtpoms.; May 5, 2009 10:02:00 AM
Anonymous said...: If an individual catches the 2009H1N1 during this late spring as it is presenting in the US in a "relatively mild" state, would that person be less likely to experience more severe ILI(influenza-like-illness) in the fall if/when the virus returns as predicted in a possibly more virulent state?; May 5, 2009 4:53:00 PM
DrGrewal said...: Looks like the swine flu is easing off in Mexico.; May 5, 2009 5:13:00 PM
marsha said...: my neighbor came over to visit, not knowing she had just returned from a 9 day stay in mexico, what are my chances of getting this flue and fro the last dayshe was there when would she get signs of the flue? thanks; May 5, 2009 9:55:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I am a thirty something year old female with sarcodosis. I am taking prednisone daily to control my symptoms. I was told that I would most likely be taking this drug for the rest of my life. I also suffer with diabetes. Are my chanses of getting and posibly dying from swine flu or any other strain greater now? Should I stay in the house untill this thing blows over, or can I take the same precautions as everyone else (hand washing)?; May 6, 2009 10:06:00 AM
SHELLEY said...: I am a 57 year old female with fibromyalgia, lupus, heart disease and sleep apnea. I recently made a move from alabama to florida and I now have coughing, stuffy nose body aches but no fever, along with "some" diaharria. I had my yearly flu shot so i don't believe it is a normal flu. This has been going on for 4 or 5 days. Should I be tested?; May 6, 2009 4:08:00 PM
Mrs.Rodriguez said...: My son is 4months old and I worry about him because my brother have kind of bad flu and I dont have flu and we live in the same house. I wonder if my baby can get flu from my brother? What should I do with my baby? Should my baby stays in his room?; May 7, 2009 6:55:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I babysit my 4 month old grand daughter and a 5 month old baby for a friend.The friend and her baby were sick today.I had her pick her baby up at 1:00,she had a fever of 100.7 and was very fussy.The friend went to the doctor today and has Swine flu.The baby is going in the morning.I've used clorox wipes on everything,put all cloth items in the washing machine and all baby toys in the dishwasher.other than watch my baby grand daughter for symptoms is there any thing eles I can do?; May 7, 2009 10:55:00 PM
ER RN in TN said...: I am and ER RN and of course face everything coming and going. After my last shift, I woke the following morning with a horrible headache. The next day I developed a cough the has left my ribs feeling like some parked their car on my chest, everthing aches and I cant stay out of bed due to extreme fatigue. I went to my doc and he just gave me antibiotics no test. What should I do?; May 9, 2009 10:46:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I came back from Cancun Mexico on April 15th. This last Wednesday I began to get flu symptoms. I still don't feel well today. I have achy body, chest pressure, fever was 100 and is up to 101.3 today. On top of the other symptoms, my nose won't quit running either. I feel very crummy. Could this be related? I thought I was in the clear after being home so long. My 7 year old had tummy issues today and threw up this morning but felt better after that. Who knows if this is all related. I am a substitute teacher and could have caught something at school. Does this at all sound like the swine flu? I am supposed to sub on Wednesday. How long do symptoms need to be gone before being around others? Thank you!; May 10, 2009 12:10:00 AM
Peter said...: Dr. Smith, I developed a high fever at the beginning of this past week. In fact it was higher than any fever I have had since I was a child, topping out at 101.8 for nearly 2 days. Yesterday was the first day my temp at one point measured normal. In the first couple of days I had absolutely horrible body aches that were excruciating. Though lethargic and still having a headache and a bit of a ringing head and a few joint aches most of the symptoms are gone save for one thing that actually seemed to predated the fever. Last Sunday I discovered a painful infection in my mouth in the back at the hinge of my left jaw. That has cleared but infection has spread throughout my my mouth. I have canker sores and seemingly other types of infections in my mouth. They are under my tongue, on the top of my tongue, on the sides of my tongue, on my cheeks, in the back of my mouth, on the roof of my mouth and on my gums. The back of my throat is also very sensitive though I can't see if the same infection is there as well. This all began a week ago today and is very very painful. What could be the cause of the infection? I have also noticed my mouth seems to be creating an inordinate amount of saliva. It has become very difficult to swallow. I discovered the first infection a week ago today. My fever at the timing of penning this to you is 99.1. Thanks Peter; May 10, 2009 2:42:00 PM
Grandma Wilson said...: Dr.,
I just returned from 2 weeks in the Dominican Republic. Both to and from, I visited, Denver, Atlanta, and Punta Cana Airports (4/29, 5/9). My daughter will not allow me to see her 11.5 month-old daughter, saying it is not safe. How long should I be "quarantined" for to make her feel comfortable? PLEASE answer soon! I miss my granddaughter!; May 10, 2009 8:02:00 PM
Anonymous said...: HI! My son (will turn 6 months while there) and I have a trip to Cancun planned for June 4-10. He has never been sick and is healthy and we are a healthy family, but is it wise to go to Cancun and chance the swine flu with him? I don't want to be stupid about it and go and at the same time don't want to miss out on the vacation unnecessarily. I know to take precautions like hand washing,etc...however is there something more I can do or is just best not to go? THanks to any help out there!; May 14, 2009 7:27:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Doc,
I'm a bit of a germophobe. Always have been, so I always take necessary precautions. Handwash constantly. Have two quick ?s, my son is almost 12 mos, may have asthma...not been diagnosed yet due to his young age. How worried should I be? I'm a bit of a worry wart. 2-I had a very nasty flu bug about 2 weeks before news hit about swine flu in Mexico. Very similar, if not same symptoms. Loss of appetite, bad cough, headache, chills, sweats, nasty, nasty sore throat...is it possible that it was already in the US w/o us knowing it? I mean it seemed like people were being diagnosed rather quickly, and I know viruses spread quickly, but that quickly?! I know I didn't go to the doctor, and even if I did, they wouldn't have known to test me for swine flu at that time. Just wondering if it's possible. Please respond.; Jun 12, 2009 11:00:00 PM
Anna said...: Hello Dr. Smith,

My 11 months son was diagnosed with swine flu. It is day 5 today, and he still has fever - 103F. It did go away with Tylenol though. On day two his fever was 104.2 F and on day three 105.2 F. I am in very close contact with him all day, but has not gotten the flu yet.
1. How long the fever generally lasts? When should I start worrying if the fever does not go away a week or longer? And how long can I keep giving him Tylenol/Motrin?
2. We send my 3 yr old son to his grandfather. When is it safe to bring him home? How long my son will be contegous?
3. Can I give someone this flu even though I have no symptomps as of today?
4. What do you consider a "dangerous" fever? My doctor says there is no such thing, but one of the books states 105 F.
5. How warm is a luke warm bath? I gave my son a bath twice in 79 and 88 degrees, and he was screaming both times.
6. For the past 2 days, he sleeps for most of the day, wakes up for an hour may be 4 times a day. Is it OK?
7. My doctor said that Tamiflu is not going to help b/s we should have started on day one. True or Faulse?

Thank you; Jul 10, 2009 10:42:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Once you have the swine flu (or any other flu for that matter), how long are you contagious?; Aug 4, 2009 3:56:00 PM
Ramesh said...: I had high fever, vomiting and body pain on 3rd Aug and took antibiotics as per doctors advice. Next day, I recovered, but have high nasal congestion. After this till today three days have past and have no problem. My son is now having fever today. He also took medicine and he is ok on the same day. Should I worry if this is a swine flue. Or I should not ignore as we both are fine now; Aug 6, 2009 2:58:00 PM
Anonymous said...: how many days the cold will exist for swine flu effected persons?; Aug 24, 2009 7:28:00 AM
Anonymous said...: Hi Dr Smith,

I had a flu shot, but it looked like moset of it dripped down my arm. Do I need to get another flu shot ?; Sep 9, 2009 8:02:00 AM
Lynette Hanthorn said...: Hello, doctor.

I want to know if aches include severe stomach ache.
I've had the stomache ache for 2 days straight, along with a few other Swine Flu symptoms, and I'm very curious.; Sep 9, 2009 10:21:00 AM
Anonymous said...: If a physician says you have influenza A, is this the same as
H1N1, or the regular flu?; Sep 15, 2009 9:48:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I have MS and take copaxone should I take the h1n1 shot?; Sep 15, 2009 8:20:00 PM
Anonymous said...: You keep saying that if people have recovered from some kind of flu, it's not necessary to be tested to determine if it was swine flu because they are no longer contagious and they are immune to that strain of the virus. If what they had was NOT swine flu - or was NOT that virus strain, they need to KNOW so that they can decide whether or not to get a swine flu vaccine shot.; Sep 18, 2009 11:47:00 AM
Anonymous said...: my son just tested positive for the swine flu and he's on tama flu. how do I know if it is type A or B??....thank you; Sep 21, 2009 12:55:00 AM
worried momma said...: My son tested positive for Flu A on Tuesday the 22nd. The Dr. said that there is no need to test for the swine flu because he had all the other symptoms of having it. He has been running a fever now since Sat. the 19th that will be 7days tomorrow. I wanted to know if one of the symptoms of the swine flu was that the person could have a high fever one day and then no fever at all the next day and then a fever again the next. My son did this. Today a fever and sick as ever...yesterday I thought he was better no fever all day and played and acted normal. Concerned!!; Sep 24, 2009 11:14:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Doc.
my son was tested postivie for swine fle he is three. we are currently doing lots of liquids and plenty of rest and i am watching his fever with mortin/tyneol. he did break out in a sweat and vomit as well and so i sat in the tub to calm done. he is sleepig allot. Please tell me what else i can do . i am very concered also how long does it last for ? also what else do you suggest i do? no aptetite at all either plenty of gatorade and water
i also did give him some mucinex for the mucas in his cough . Also the dr said the fever should go away by saturday please let me know thanks... what is tamiflu and does he need to take that?; Sep 25, 2009 1:51:00 PM
sellecks said...: This post has been removed by the author.; Sep 25, 2009 6:35:00 PM
sellecks said...: Does the H1N1 vaccine contain bood or animal parts?; Sep 26, 2009 9:47:00 PM
Giftedone33 said...: Hi Dr. Smith, I was wondering what are the possible side affects from the H1N1 vaccine? If there are any and does anyone know if there are any side affects for sure? Thank you, Lynn.; Sep 27, 2009 7:03:00 PM
Anonymous said...: hello i am 18 years old and have had strep throat often this year. A couple days ago i got a sore throat and it has gotten worse since then. I have a bad sore throat, runny nose, headache, back and rib aches, and just feel all around awful. i do not have a fever. Should I get checked for swine flu?; Sep 28, 2009 9:26:00 PM
Anonymous said...: i was hospitalized after I received the swine flu when my first child had been born and she was six weeks old. I took the shot in 1976 and will not take it almost died from the shot. I am learning that those shots in 1976 cause Guillain-Barré. No thank you plan to use my lysol and no shot....; Oct 1, 2009 5:49:00 AM
Anonymous said...: do you recommend to take the regular flu shot as a preemptive measure to getting sick? Will it make my child who is 7 more susceptible to H1N1? Kindly advise urgently.; Oct 5, 2009 1:27:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Dr. Smith,
I've had swine-flu like symptoms for a week which included chills, fever, sever sore-throat, body aches all over, nightsweats, unexplained diarhea and vomiting last May, but I'm fully recovered from it. Should I still get vaccinated for Swine flu this coming Fall or am I already immune to all strains of Swine Flus?; Oct 5, 2009 10:12:00 PM
Anonymous said...: i have a 5 year old daughter who is presenting congestion, sore throat and cough, and nasal discharge (clear). She has no fever, though. does the H1N1 always present with FEVER? Is there reason to believe it is more than allergies?; Oct 7, 2009 6:22:00 AM
Anonymous said...: my son is 3 years old and allergic to eggs. he also have asthma. how can i prevent him from getting the swine flu or regular flu since he can't take the flu shots.; Oct 15, 2009 10:54:00 AM
Anonymous said...: My Son is 25 Years Old and Has Had MS for 5 years.
He thought He had the Flu last Week, But, He Cam Home tonight very Sick.
What can I Do or Should do ??; Oct 15, 2009 10:00:00 PM
Anonymous said...: what is the age range for the swine flue to attack?; Oct 18, 2009 12:48:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I found out today that my son 6 year old son has the swine flu..the doctor told the rest of us to go get the shot..what are the side affects of the swine flu shot?; Oct 18, 2009 8:18:00 PM
Anonymous said...: we had the flu about a month ago and we still dont feel right we still feel light headed and woozy and are getting headaches off and on; Oct 22, 2009 11:14:00 PM
Anonymous said...: What if you have the swine flu symptoms but after a couple days it seems to go away. But then u get the same syptoms again a couple weeks later. Usually when the symptoms come back they are a little worse then before.; Oct 27, 2009 12:34:00 PM
Anonymous said...: How Long Does The Swine Flu Last?; Oct 27, 2009 2:13:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I have a friend with a four year old boy,another of her friends came over and allowed her children to play with the four year old. The friends son was diagnosed with this swine flu. Instead of keeping her child quaranteed she allowed him to play with other children. My friends son has been diagnosed with it three days later. My advice is to keep your children home if they are ill. If they are unable to cover their own mouth when they cough;they need to stay home.I feel for the ones who already have it and wish their families the best. We need some control on this issue. If you are ill don't spread the illness . Be safe for other childern and elderly's sake if not for our own.; Oct 27, 2009 8:47:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Hello, I was wondering my daughter is on medicine Amoxicilan for her cold and cough. since shes on medicine I was hoping to get her the swine flu shot tomorrow. Can I still take her to get the free shot or should I wait cause of her being on medicine and having a cold still?; Oct 28, 2009 6:23:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Yesterday my doctor told me I have swine flu. I have all the symptoms for it, but I tested negative but I still got medication for the flu. Anyways last night I had the chills, throwing up, cough, fever ect. Now when I woke up this morning, I lost my temp. no more chills and I'm able to keep things down.

is this normal for people with swine flu to feel better a day after taking medication or do you think I have something else, considering I tested negative.

fyi: I dont really believe doctors when they tell you, you have something. My friend went in, the doctors made her believe she had an STD, when really she didnt.; Oct 29, 2009 9:58:00 AM
Anonymous said...: If you are told that you have the swine flu, how long should you wait before you should go back to work? How long are you still contagious?; Oct 30, 2009 8:42:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I also tested negative but I have all the same symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle aches, fever, chills. The fever stopped so my doctor told me not to take the tamiflu. I now have the fever with all the other symptoms. I am now starting the med for it per my doctor.; Oct 30, 2009 8:47:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I received a seasonal flu shot today and when the nurse removed the needle I bled excessively. It ran down my arm in a stream about halfway to my elbow before she even tried to stop it. This has never happened before and she even asked me if I was on Coumadin, which I am not. My question is did I lose the vaccine with the excessive bleeding and should I get another shot? Thanks.; Nov 3, 2009 9:23:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I was swabbed and received a positive H1N1 diagnosis at a local acute care clinic on Sept. 28. I had been feeling ill for 2-3 days prior to that. I took Tamiflu and after 3 weeks was still coughing so went to local ER and was told I had bronchitis and given a Z-pack and various cough meds. It is now Nov. 7 and I still have a hard, sharp-sounding cough, but without fever. Should I return to the doctor's office? I am a public school teacher, and have had pneumonia before after URIs. Thank you.; Nov 7, 2009 6:34:00 PM
Victoria said...: I'm 38 weeks pregnant and due on the 23rd of Nov, Does the swine flu and regular flu shot protect my baby when she is born??; Nov 9, 2009 12:00:00 PM
Anonymous said...: How long is moderate (sometimes) severe fatigue expected to last with H1N1. My 16 year old was diagnosed 12 days ago. Fever subsided 5 days ago but she is still fatigued. Doesn't want to drive- you know she doesn't feel well!; Nov 10, 2009 11:39:00 PM
kimmiesue said...: I was tested positive for the swine flu back in September. Should I still get the swine flu vaccine? Some people have told me that you cannot get the swine flu again and others have said that you can. Any advice?; Nov 12, 2009 2:14:00 PM
Nick said...: how long does it take the h1n1 vaccine to work?; Nov 14, 2009 10:03:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I recently received the H1N1 shot and I breast feed my 5 month old son who can not receive this shot until he is 6 months. My question is, will my body pass any kind of immunity to the H1N1 flu to my son? Also, my brother refuses to get the shot for H1N1, he says it's more probable that we will die from something else than this flu. Like I said, my son is under 6 months and can not get the shot, Is it really so serious that I should tell my brother to stop coming to my home until he or my son are properly vaccinated?; Nov 21, 2009 4:20:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I am a 78 year old female and my Dr. diagnosed me with swine flu. My temperature has been sub normal, from one degree below to .6 below. I have been dealing with the throat, cough and feeling bad for two weeks and Dr. says, probably at least one more week before I feel 50% better. I am waiting for my temp to be normal and know I am no long contagious. My husband is imune, a blessing that one of us is up and about. JAH in Yuma, Az. We have discovered that a humidifier truly helps in this dry climate, we run ours day and night.; Nov 26, 2009 11:19:00 AM
Anonymous said...: How long after someone gets the H1n1 virus are they contegous to others?; Nov 27, 2009 11:36:00 AM
Becklerb said...: The last couple of weeks, my tempature has been running right arund 95.7 degrees to 96.4 degrees. I woke up with a horrible sore throat. What do I take for my Sub Normal Tempature. I feel sick and week.; Nov 30, 2009 7:08:00 AM
Anonymous said...: My son is 15 and has been sick for going on 2 months. Dr's has given him Amox....it worked but came back withing 48 hrs of end of round. Was then given Zpac and again the same situation. He is now taking Augmentin for 14 days, after 7 days his symptoms of runny nose, sore throat and congestion are not any better. HELP!!!; Dec 7, 2009 10:41:00 AM
Christa said...: I received my Swine Flu shot today, but my daughter and grand-daughter who are visiting from London have not yet had their shots. Does my having the vaccine now make them vulnerable to getting the Flu since they have not had the vaccine?; Dec 30, 2009 11:48:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I have been sick for 2 days now and the symptoms got worse at night. I am cool to the touch but burning on the the inside with a headache and very sore and achy joints. What virus do you think I could possibly have?; Jan 6, 2010 5:08:00 AM
Rob Fortin said...: I started on antibiotics (Amoxicillin) yesterday for a Sinus Infection. I'd like to get my H1N1 Flu shot in 4 days at a clinic. Can I get the H1N1 Flu shot if I'm on Antibiotics?; Jan 6, 2010 12:53:00 PM

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