Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu
What to do if you have the flu
If you have the flu, it is important to:
* stay home and let a relative or friend know if you are at home alone
* rest in a separate room that has good ventilation and is away from other members of the household
* don?t share anything that may spread flu
* drink small amounts of fluids often and keep your mouth clean and moist by cleaning teeth regularly
* take drugs that relieve pain and fever, eg, paracetamol or ibuprofen. (Aspirin-type medications should not be used for children and young people.)
* gargle with a glass of warm water and/or suck on sugarless hard sweets or lozenges for sore throats
* use saline drops or nasal spray or decongestants for soothing and clearing the nose
* keep bedding and nightwear clean and dry if you are in bed
* shower or bath regularly, or use a cloth to wash with warm water and soap and make sure you wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds, drying them well afterwards or use antiseptic rubs
* apply skin balm or moisturiser to prevent your lips, nose and surrounding skin from drying out and cracking.
If you don?t feel like eating or drinking:
* try light fluid-type nutritional snacks such as chicken soup or perhaps yoghurt
* don?t worry if you can?t handle food, but keep taking fluids, try an ice block or jelly.
If you aren?t drinking enough, you may be dehydrated. You may:
* have no urine or very little, which will be a dark yellow colour
* feel confused or drowsy
* have dull eyes
* have dry skin that will have lost its elasticity (it won?t spring back when you pinch it lightly)
If you find it hard to breathe:
* sit upright
* contact your doctor immediately.
