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Swine Flu: Who's Most at Risk?
I've been receiving quite a few questions about whether certain people should be more concerned about catching swine flu. The short answer is "yes."
As with the garden-variety flu, there are some people who are more likely to be severely affected by the swine flu. These people are more likely to get very ill, require hospitalization, and more likely to die.
People at higher risk have one thing in common. Their bodies are more susceptible to serious complications of the flu, such as pneumonia or even bloodstream infection.That said, most of these people recover just fine from the flu with no serious illness. But it's good for them to take steps to be extra careful in preventing the flu.
So, who's most at risk?
1. Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday (but the younger the child the higher the risk)
2. Pregnant women
3. People 50 years of age and older
4. People of any age with certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease (asthma, COPD, emphysema), diabetes or those with weakened immune systems
So what should these people do to protect themselves?
If there were a swine flu vaccine available, then they'd definitely want to get one. Unfortunately, there isn't one. The CDC says they may have one available by September. Time will tell if it's still necessary by then. Fingers crossed our aggressive efforts will take care of the problem beforehand.
We all need to be very vigilant about warding off the swine flu virus. Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands! Guess you get my drift. It truly is the most effective flu prevention strategy.
Also, until this thing calms down a bit -- and it will -- high-risk people, such as pregnant women, should avoid being around sick people. If someone is coughing, has a fever or sore throat, or other symptoms that could possibly be swine flu, avoid them until they are on the mend.
Wondering about a mask? Check out my blog from earlier this week.
And what about antiviral medications? If anyone from these high-risk groups is exposed to someone with swine flu symptoms, they should call their doctor to see if they should take antiviral drugs, such as Relenza or Tamiflu. These medications can help prevent you from getting the flu, if taken early enough after exposure. Or, if you do get symptoms, they can help lessen the severity of the illness and help you feel better faster. They may also help prevent serious flu complications. The key is to start them early -- within 2 days of symptoms.
Stay tuned with WebMD's Swine Flu Guide for the latest news and tips on combating swine flu.
Do you know anyone that has had the swine flu? Have a question you can't seem to find the answer to? Let me know and we'll do our best to tackle it for you.
As with the garden-variety flu, there are some people who are more likely to be severely affected by the swine flu. These people are more likely to get very ill, require hospitalization, and more likely to die.
People at higher risk have one thing in common. Their bodies are more susceptible to serious complications of the flu, such as pneumonia or even bloodstream infection.That said, most of these people recover just fine from the flu with no serious illness. But it's good for them to take steps to be extra careful in preventing the flu.
So, who's most at risk?
1. Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday (but the younger the child the higher the risk)
2. Pregnant women
3. People 50 years of age and older
4. People of any age with certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease (asthma, COPD, emphysema), diabetes or those with weakened immune systems
So what should these people do to protect themselves?
If there were a swine flu vaccine available, then they'd definitely want to get one. Unfortunately, there isn't one. The CDC says they may have one available by September. Time will tell if it's still necessary by then. Fingers crossed our aggressive efforts will take care of the problem beforehand.
We all need to be very vigilant about warding off the swine flu virus. Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands! Guess you get my drift. It truly is the most effective flu prevention strategy.
Also, until this thing calms down a bit -- and it will -- high-risk people, such as pregnant women, should avoid being around sick people. If someone is coughing, has a fever or sore throat, or other symptoms that could possibly be swine flu, avoid them until they are on the mend.
Wondering about a mask? Check out my blog from earlier this week.
And what about antiviral medications? If anyone from these high-risk groups is exposed to someone with swine flu symptoms, they should call their doctor to see if they should take antiviral drugs, such as Relenza or Tamiflu. These medications can help prevent you from getting the flu, if taken early enough after exposure. Or, if you do get symptoms, they can help lessen the severity of the illness and help you feel better faster. They may also help prevent serious flu complications. The key is to start them early -- within 2 days of symptoms.
Stay tuned with WebMD's Swine Flu Guide for the latest news and tips on combating swine flu.
Do you know anyone that has had the swine flu? Have a question you can't seem to find the answer to? Let me know and we'll do our best to tackle it for you.
34 Comments:
I thought this swine flu was attacking younger people, rather than older people. At least that is what a lot of media are reporting. Older people generally have less effective immune systems than younger people, so how does medicine explain this strange situation?
As a 54 yr.old person with MS I am probably at greater risk than younger stronger people.or am I ? as I have heard it said that my immune system is "too aggressive" or is that just in general?
Reg
What is the risk to an unborn child if the mother contracts the Swine Flu. I know that influenza can be a problem for a fetus, is swine flu deadly to an embryo/fetus? I'm currently 14w3d and have three small children at home (ages 3,2,1). Should we be staying home more often than not. It's been reported just 30mins North of where we live in 2 individuals.
I took my son to Pediatric Associates here in Thomaston GA on Monday April 27, 2009 for flu symptoms. His throat was swabbed and blood work was taken and given an antibiotic shot and 5 day antibiotic therapy. He ran a fever of 104.1 degrees, horrible body aches all over, sore throat, a hacking cough, diarrhea, vomiting, sneezing, headache. He caught this at school last Friday and was seen by the doctor Monday April 27, 2009 but they gave me no diagnosis. Does this sound like the swine flu and if so why aren't we being told? I was told to keep him home from school for the week. Other kids at Upson Lee South Elementary have been treated with three different antibiotics that have no effect on this fever. Now I have it and my husband.
I am going on a hiking trip to Italy this weekend (5/1- 5/15). I am 73 years old. should I wear a mask on the plane?
My wife (age 71) is scheduled to fly to Chicago and then travel to South Haven, Michigan, for a gathering of the women in her family from throughout the US.
In a few days after the start of her trip, I am to follow her by car and we plan to drive throughout Ontario for 2 weeks.
In the event that the WHO declares a Phase Full Pandemic H1N1 flu, should she cancel her trip this year and our subsequent tourist drive to Canada?
I have a girl who cleans for me. She is originally from Mexico & she has friends in the U.S. that are from Mexico. Is there a risk that my 71 year old Mother can catch Swine flue from her?
Thank You,
scc3462
My 9yr. old son has cronic persistant severe asthma, Also I am a 2x heart attack survivor I have CAD with Vasal spasms at 34 yrs of age. If one of us should get this Swine Flu it would be devastating to both of us therefore I have pulled my 2 children from school since Swine Flu is in the county we live in .
I am very frustrated with the inconstant information being put out by the CDC, WHO, the White House Press, etc...reporting "confirmed" cases, isn't giving us the REAL picture in the U.S...I try to gather info from different places. I just read the Seattle area has 5 schools closed, with multiple cases...my state Idaho, has several people being tested, with 1 confirmed...I almost feel that the info is being screened/filtered, simply because they are afraid people will panic, and they won't be able to control the situation. Personally I believe Biden was being VERY honest with his comments today. I also found a video clip, about a business in Kirkland WA, "Veritec" (right spelling I think) that saw this coming, and warned the CDC and WHO as early as March 2...they are some sort of "tracking" company, state of the art/ techi, etc...VERY interesting clip if you find it. Just makes me wonder if the CDC/WHO didn't get caught with their pants down...they sure don't seem to be making eye contact when they are giving these important press conferences...has anyone heard from their States Govenor?? I did see Ca stepped up and declared a State of Emergency...that can't be for the, what, 14 "confirmed" cases being reported...any thoughts??? I am NOT paranoid, just would like the truth of the matter!!! My family has gone into emergency preparedness mode...nothing crazy, just common sense stuff.
Chicago has several schools closed also...anyone else know of school closures??? New York, Dallas/ Fort Worth, Chicago, Seattle...???? Where else???? I know schools are not closing because 1 student is sick...these schools have many sick.
My 17 year old son has all the symptoms except the fever. I have read that you shouldn't run to the doctor with every little sniffle but I am concerned. I have also read that you HAVE to have a fever along with one or more of the other symptoms but since my son does not have a fever I don't know if maybe it's just a cold. I don't want to panic but I'm worried. Any advice?
What about people who've had kidney or other transplants within the past 3-4 years and who've also had a form of cancer specific to kidney patients?
It's a double whammy I know, but I've had both within the past 4 years. While my immune system isn't as suppressed as it once was, I'm still at a lower-functioning stage than many "normal healthy people". If I'm already on Acyclovir, a heavy antiviral, should I up the dosage just as a precaution?
In response to Juli's question about school closings...
I live in Tarrant County, Fort Worth Texas. Currently, all Fort Worth ISD schools are closed until final exams start on May 5th, and the only other school I know of that's closed is the undergraduate campus of Texas Wesleyan (I'm attached by the law school and they sent out a mass email to all students in the system). Most grad schools I know of are staying open since we're just about to hit finals, and currently school officials are just telling the students to take precautions such as hand washing and avoiding people who are clearly sick with something.
Other than that, I don't know if other systems have closed. I'd be interested to hear about schools in my home-state of GA, where there's been a confirmed case and death of a LaGrange woman (though you can't ALWAYS trust what the AJC says...)
My son has had a splenic embolectomy he is 34 years old. I haven't seen any information regarding the risks for this group of people. Can anyone give any further info?
We live in San Diego County and the media is telling how many cases there are and what to do to prevent the swine flu. Our question is if a person should unfortunately get the swine flu, how long can they expect to be ill? A time frame on what to expect would really be helpful to know if you have swine flu or some other "bug". Please advise. And, if you have had a flu shot, what are the chances of knowing what strain of flu you have if you catch the flu?
I am a 27 year old pregnant female who today started getting a sore throat and being congested. I am wondering does anyone think that this could be allergies or Swine Flu? I am very concerned for myself, but mostly for my 5 year old and my other family members. I am currently out of town but expect to be home tomorrow. I live in KY and have not been near the area where the only case of Swine FLU in KY has been reported. Should I be concerned?
I work at a convieniant store in South East New Mexico. We have alot of people that come through our lines that are from Mexico every day. We are located about 3 hours north east of El Paso, Tx. We are a vacation spot for alot of Mexican National's. I have COPD. How at risk am I. What are they doing at the boarder's to help prevent this from spreading to far? This is a poor state very few people go to doctors or hospital's. Thank you, Concerned Clerk from New Mexico
i am a 35 year old male with high blood preasure and i have had a sore throat for two days and my eyes have been burning, i do not have any body aches or fever and was concerened if i may be coming down with this swine flu.
People need to stop freaking out about the flu. The vaccine released earlier this year was not for this string of flu, true, but common sense and good hand washing are so important, that most people don't realize how much it can prevent the spread of infection. Anyone with the slightest cough should be courtious and overly cautious by wearing a mask and covering your mouth when you cough.
Many individuals do not realize that the regular flu kills on average 36,000 Americans each year. These are not always the average healthy individuals. Unfortunately, the death rate has fallen on those whom are elderly and chronically ill. These individuals already have an immune system deficiency because they are already ill--it is harder for them to fight off anything. The flu just seems to be what tips the beam. For example, the only reported death in America as a result of the swine flu, was a young baby who already had underlined health issues... Death rates in Mexico are higher because in general medicine and health is not as good as in other parts of the world.
I am only 19 years old and not overly concerned about the swine flu. School closures accross the country are a great idea to help prevent the spread of infection. I work in a local clinic available for individuals who fall into the lowest income brackets. What I have noticed since the flu has arrived is EVERY SINGLE CHILD with the slightest head cold is being brought in bacause their parents are paranoid. I personally do not have kids, but I think that I would be worried too. Everyone needs to realize the actual symptoms of this string and only go to the doctor if you really beleive they possibly have the swine flu. Otherwise leave the availability for those who have other acute and chronic issues that need attention.
Just wanted to add one more thing... the clinic that I work in has confirmed a number of cases... according to the news and press, no one in my state has had a confirmed swine flu victim... INTERESTING!
It seems there are several States that are testing, and have not yet "confirmed" ...with the week-end here, we will most likely see a jump on Monday. Our Spring Break took place in mid-March, we had students vacation in Mexico, and as a result, 93 students in 1 school had flu-like symptoms...no cases have been "confirmed", yet many parents believe it to be H1N1...I am wondering,"how" they are tracking this, without people being tested...some are, some are not...? Anyone with a pre-existing condition needs to be careful. I do wish the CDC and WHO were a bit more forthcoming with information...I realize they don't want people to panic, but the lack of info makes everyone nervous.
I live in Slinger, Wisconsin - Southeast corner - suburb of Milwaukee. We have many schools closed due to 3 cases - they are all closed through this week and some indefinately. My ?? is I have a 6 year old who has had a fever of 102 all day and Motrin didn't take care of it at all - he sometimes says he has a sore throat and then he doesn't. I don't want to be one of those that runs to the doctor, but I am also worried because of the fever. What to do?
I live in New Zealand, and our ministry of ealth is ggoing crazy over this. As is the media. But no matter what, they cant seem to hiide the fact that there are only 4!!! confimred cases in the country. Im pregnant, so i should probably be worried...but still, 4/3million ppl...im worried about catching aids to tell the truth, im sure there is more of that...and im not actually worried about that at all
I have a 4 old and I have taken him out of Pre-K, actually a week before all of this started. Now I'm very glad I did. He actually started out with type A flu in Feb. then in March he had parainfluenza and pneumonia and was in the hospital for 6 days. Then 16 days later he had pnuemonia in his right lung and was in the hospital for 4 days. Now it has been about 3 weeks later and he still has pneumonia in is right lung, he is on his third round of steriods and atabotics. So of course I'm really scared for him I have not taken him anywhere. He has been staying home.
my 4 yr old daughter and i (25) are allergic to eggs so therefore we cannot recieve the flu shot...i dont get as sick as often as her...are we both at risk?
Im 21years old and I have two symptoms of the swine flu sore throat and cough should i be worried. mind you i developed the symptoms over a week ago and they have greatly deminish but are still bothering me at times i find my self having trouble sleeping cause i begin to cough.
John R
well, I am 33 years old, in fit condition, with your description, I think I considered as "low risk" of swine flu.
i have asthma. I only have problems when i get sick, so i only have a rescue inhaler. I have a trip to mexico planned for the end of the month. I read that you should consider taking antivirals if you're high risk. am i considered high risk and do you suggest i speak with my doctor about getting a prescription for tamiflu or relenza?
In response to the woman in Slinger on may 3, It's now may 15th and the press reported 613 confermed cases in Wisconsin 424 in Milwaukee county. I live next door in West Allis Wi. 4 months ago I recieved a pancreas and kidney transplant. My daughter was put on Tamiflu as she presented with all the symptoms today, She's in daycare where 4 children like her are awaiting blood testing, Would starting Tamiflu or Relenza now do ANYTHING to ward this off? Or should I just man up and wait for her conformation??
i just found out that the kids i wordwith have the swine flu.should i get tested and should i return to work tomorrow or stay away fro the risk of getting infected
I have the flu, but should I get tested for the H1N1 flu?
I know I cannot get a regular flu shot but can I have the swine flu vaccine if I'm allergic to eggs.
my son is three and i tested positive for swine flu what other precautions should we take
I am going to Radiation Therapy right now. My nephew had swine flu about a week ago. is it ok for me to be around him?
This piece contradicts what the New York Times just reported--that most people over 50 are not getting Swine Flu. So what gives?
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