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1. What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease normally found in pigs that has now spread to humans.

2. What is pandemic flu?

A "pandemic" is a disease that spreads all over the world and affects a large number of people. If you are caring for a loved one during a pandemic, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and others. Always follow the most current advice of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and your local health department.

3. How do I prevent the spread of pandemic flu?

Take the following steps to prevent the spread of pandemic flu:

• Wash hands often with soap and water or alcohol based sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and clean your hands afterward.
• Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you don't have tissues.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent germs from entering your body.
  
  

4. What are the symptoms of pandemic flu?

Symptoms of the flu include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Runny nose

5. What should I do if I or a family member display signs of the flu?

If you or a family member display signs of the flu, stay home from work, school and errands and avoid contact with others. Call your healthcare professional at the first sign of the flu. Many symptoms can be treated by the health care professional over the phone.

Consider wearing a surgical mask when around others to prevent the spread any further.

6. How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?

A person with the swine flu may be able to spread the flu starting a day before they begin to feel sick, and for as long as they have symptoms, possibly 7 to 10 days.

7. Who can I contact to get more information about the flu?

Visit the local Red Cross or call the Franklin County Health Department at 636-583-7300.