If you think you have H1N1

The symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus 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 the H1N1 flu virus.

What if I have flu-like symptoms?

If you are concerned or experiencing any of these symptoms, there is no need to rush to the ER or a clinic. A good place to start is to call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, anytime of the day or night. You can also use the online H1N1 Symptom Checker at www.healthlinkbc.ca.

What if I do get sick with the flu?

Do not go to a doctor or hospital if your influenza illness is limited to fever, cough, sore throat, and general aches and weakness. Stay at home, rest and drink plenty of liquids like soup, juice, water or tea.

You should try to avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. Be sure to take other precautions as well, including:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue away immediately.

• Wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers.

• If you have to travel outside the home while you have flu symptoms, wearing a simple surgical mask will help protect others from your coughing.

• Find a “flu buddy” to assist you in accessing medication if you become ill and are unable to travel.

About a day after you feel better, you can start increasing your activity. Keep in mind that it may take a week or two until you are back to normal.

Should I get tested by a doctor?

In British Columbia, the well-established surveillance system will continue to allow officials to track both the spread and impact of the H1N1 flu virus in the province – but it is a system that doesn’t rely on doing a lab test on everyone with influenza-like illness.

Testing will be determined by a doctor on a case-by-case basis, based on consideration of the individual patient’s situation and the presence of influenza in the community.

Patients with severe symptoms should seek medical attention and the province is still actively encouraging doctors and health care providers to do H1N1 testing on any patient with severe respiratory illness.

Patients who are not at high-risk for complications and who have only mild illness do not require testing. It’s important to know that doctors don’t need to see a lab-confirmed test to prescribe antivirals for treatment of the flu.

What if I get worse?

If your illness gets worse and you develop warning signs like shortage of breath or pain breathing, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 or visit your doctor immediately.

You can also call 8-1-1, 24 hours a day/seven days a week to speak to a nurse if you have more questions or are concerned about any illness/symptoms experienced by you or your children.

For the latest facts on the H1N1 flu virus, visit www.gov.bc.ca/h1n1.

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