Currently, there are few confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Florida.  Our local Health Department is working with the Centers for Disease Control to communicate evolving recommendations as needed. Sunshine Health Center is  working closely with the Health Department to assure that we are kept up to date on the ever-changing status of the Swine Flu. In the interim, we will continue to care for our patients the same way we do everyday, with the key to preventing flu transmission being, WASH YOUR HANDS.

For more detailed information on the Swine Flu beyond the following summary, please visit the CDC website at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

What is swine flu?

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.

Are there human infections with swine flu in the u.s.?

In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other u.s states have reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.

Is the swine flu virus contagious?

The CDC has determined that this swine influenza (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not know how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the signs and Symptoms of swine flu in people?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does swine flu spread?

Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?

First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.