RECOGNIZE THE SYMPTOMS:
Almost Always:
Sudden onset of cough and fever
Common:
Fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, headache, decreased appetite, runny nose
Sometimes:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

SEVERITY INDICATORS:
- Shortness of breath, rapid or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Bluish or grey skin colour
- Bloody or coloured mucus/ spit
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- High fever lasting more than 3 days
- Low blood pressure

PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand
- Get your H1N1 flu shot
- Keep common surface areas clean and disinfected
- If you get sick, stay home! Contact your health care provider right away if you develop severe symptoms or if you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications

PLAN AHEAD:
- Speak to your family and friends about how you can help each other during the flu season.
- Stock up on essentials such as pain and fever medications and easy meals.
- Have important telephone numbers on hand such as your doctor, local public health clinic and information lines.

Get your FREE H1N1 Preparedness Guide today at www.fightflu.ca
1-800-O-Canada

Posted October 30, 2009