How do I know if I have the flu?
September 25, 2009
The groups recommended to receive the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine include:
With the spread of the pandemic HIN1 2009 influenza virus, commonly known as "swine flu," many doctors and hospitals have increased their use of rapid influenza diagnostic tests that can determine within minutes whether you have the flu. However, these rapid tests can not distinguish seasonal influenza from the pandemic H1N1 virus and overall these rapid flu tests often don't detect pandemic H1N1 influenza very well, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Google Flu Trends uses aggregated Google search data to estimate flu activity in your state up to two weeks faster than traditional systems.
To find a Flu Clinic in your area, enter your zip code into the Flu Clinic Locator to the right. You will get the date, times, address, and phone number of the Clinics offering flu shots near you, as well as a map showing where the Clinic is located. The American Lung Association updates the Locator daily, so you will always get the most up-to-date Flu Clinic information.
With all the headlines about the global H1N1 influenza (swine flu) pandemic, you might be worried about keeping your family safe. But the truth is, there's no reason to panic. Right now, there's no evidence that H1N1 flu is any worse — or more dangerous — than the common seasonal flu.
Still, it's important to take precautions, like washing your hands often. Read on to see what you can do to protect your family and care for kids with flu-like symptoms.
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