How to DIAGNOSE Swine Flu Symptoms

The Swine Influenza is an illness of the respiratory system caused by an airborne virus. Swine flu can be spread from human to human when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The airborne germs may be inhaled by a healthy person by simply being in close proximity with someone who is infected. Germs may also be picked up by touching something that is infected and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

Follow these steps to diagnose if you have contracted the Swine Flu.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. ~Watch for the First signs of Swine Flu~
   
   The first symptoms of swine flu include coughing, lack of appetite and lethargy. Fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit is typical.

2. ~Watch for the Advanced signs of Swine Flu~
   
   As the infection advances, some people will experience sore throat, body aches, runny nose, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.

3. ~Call your Doctor~
   
   If you are experiencing many of the symptoms listed in Steps 1 and 2, contact your doctor to discuss if influenza treatment or testing is recommended. See "Warnings" below more information.

4. ~Final Diagnosis by a Doctor~
   
   Only a Doctor can diagnose swine flu by running tests. There are two tests that are conducted to aid in the confirmation of a diagnosis.
   
   Both tests require a sample of secretions from the nose and mouth (known as a nose and throat swab) and must be tested in the first 24-72 hours after the first symptoms appear.

5. ~Confirm Proper Test Sample Preparation Procedures are Followed~
   
   For clinicians:
   
   Per CDC, Obtain nasal wash/aspirate or nasopharyngeal swab/aspirate. An alternative is a combined nasal swab with an oropharyngeal swab. For patients that are intubated, an endotracheal aspirate must be collected.
   
   Specimens require placement in sterile viral transport media (VTM) and must be placed on ice, cold packs or maintained at 4°C (refrigerator) for transport to the laboratory. Clinicians must order real-time RT-PCR and/or viral culture specifically for Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus. Contact your hospital microbiology laboratory for any additional directions specific to your institution prior to collection and to forewarn laboratory dirctor/staff on incoming specimen.
   
   Ensure all personnel handling specimens are wearing PPE.

Tips & Warnings

• URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION is required for CHILDREN who show signs of symptoms listed in Steps 1, 2 ~AND~ any of the following: (1)Flu symptoms appear to get better but then return with worse cough and fever (2)Bluish color of the skin (3) Troubled, Fast Breathing (4)Does not want to drink fluids (5)Fever and a rash (6)Refusing to be held because of irritability (7)Difficulty waking up or little interaction
• URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION is required for ADULTS who show signs of Symptoms listed in Steps 1, 2 ~AND~ any of the following: (1)Sudden confusion or dizziness (2)Shortness of breath or difficult breathing (3)Persistent, severe vomiting (4)Pressure or pain the abdomen or chest