Information on H1N1 Just for Kids

Information on H1N1 Just for Kids...

What is Swine Flu?

Swine flu is a type of an infection that can make you sick. Pigs and birds sometimes get the flu and then give it to people. You may hear swine flu called H1N1 flu. It’s different from regular flu.

People who get the flu run a fever, cough, and sneeze. Your body will hurt all over, and you may feel sick to your stomach. The good news is that usually you only feel bad for about a week.

Sometimes when people are already sick, getting the flu can make them sicker. If you do get really sick, you may need to go to the hospital where doctors and nurses will help you get better.

Your doctor may give you a medicine called Tamiflu (Tam-eye-flu). It will keep the flu germ from making you more sick. This means you’ll get better faster.

When you get sick with the flu, you need to stay home and rest. You need to drink lots of water and juices. Tell your mom or dad if you start feeling really bad or it’s hard to breathe.

You get the flu when a virus gets into body. You can catch the flu if someone coughs or sneezes without covering their mouths and noses. The flu virus can live on surfaces for several hours. You can pick up the virus from a doorknob or table and then move it to your body.

You can help shoo the flu away!

• Wash your hands often. Sing the “Happy Birthday” song to let you know how long to wash.
• Don’t eat after other people or drink out of their cup.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a Kleenex, use your elbow.
• Stay away from others who are coughing or sneezing. Germs fly out of your mouth and nose and onto anything in their way.

Your mom and dad may take you to the doctor for shots to help you stay healthy. The shots may hurt a little but may mean you don’t get the flu or don’t get as sick.