H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Diagnosis of Influenza and H1N1 Flu

Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam to check for symptoms of influenza, including H1N1 flu, often referred to as swine flu. In some cases, your symptoms may be reviewed over the phone.

Testing for influenza may be done, but not everyone with flu symptoms requires a test. In many cases, knowing that someone has the flu does not change the treatment plan.

Tests are more likely to be used if:

• You are already hospitalized

• You are at high risk for flu complications

• You live with someone who is at greater risk of complications

Tests can help determine if flu is the cause of your symptoms or if another condition may be responsible, such as:

• Heart problems like heart failure or infection of the heart muscle

• Lung or breathing issues such as asthma or pneumonia

• Brain or nervous system conditions like encephalopathy or encephalitis

• Septic shock or organ failure

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is often used because it is more sensitive and can identify the flu strain. It is also possible to be infected with both flu and another virus, such as COVID-19, at the same time.

Treatment of Influenza and H1N1 Flu

Most people with flu need only supportive care to relieve symptoms. This may include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids

• Taking pain relievers for fever and headache

• Getting adequate rest

People with chronic respiratory conditions may require additional medications to manage symptoms.

Antiviral medications may be prescribed, especially if started within the first one or two days of symptoms. These drugs can reduce symptom severity and lower the risk of complications. The FDA has approved four antiviral drugs for treating flu:

• Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)

• Zanamivir (Relenza)

• Peramivir (Rapivab)

• Baloxavir (Xofluza)

Because flu viruses can develop resistance, antivirals are generally reserved for people at high risk of complications or those in close contact with high-risk individuals. Careful use of antivirals helps maintain effectiveness and ensures availability for those who need them most.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

If you develop the flu, stay home to prevent spreading the virus. Keep children home until their fever has been gone for at least 24 hours.

Home measures to ease symptoms include:

• Drinking plenty of liquids such as water, juice, and warm soups to prevent dehydration

• Getting extra rest to support the immune system

• Using nonprescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (avoid giving aspirin to children or teenagers recovering from flu-like symptoms due to the risk of Reye syndrome)

• Limiting contact with others until you are feeling better; wear a face mask if you must leave home for medical care

• Washing hands frequently

These steps can help manage symptoms, speed recovery, and reduce the risk of spreading influenza to others.