Reports of cases of swine flu have been noted in the United States since March, 2009. Now the number of cases is increasing and sites include many states. It is important for pregnant women to understand the signs and symptoms of swine flu and to present promptly to their health care provider if such symptoms begin. In addition, pregnant women exposed to a person with swine flu may be candidates for a preventative prescription of an antiviral medicine active against swine flu.
Symptoms of swine flu are the same as symptoms of regular flu and include; fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some women may develop diarrhea and vomiting. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent progression to a severe illness such as pneumonia.
Pregnant women are considered at high risk for complications resulting from flu. For this reason, if you live in an area in which swine flu cases have been reported and you develop the above symptoms, you should contact your health care provider. In addition, if you have come in contact with an individual who has been diagnosed with swine flu, you should also be evaluated even if you don’t have symptoms.
Antiviral medicines, both Tamiflu and Relenza, can be used in pregnancy. They are clearly indicated for swine flu infections complicating pregnancy and in some cases may be prescribed to prevent an exposed pregnant woman from coming down with flu symptoms. The medications are most effective if started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
Many pregnant women take care of children. The flu is contagious for about 7 days after symptoms develop. Transmission of the virus occurs from person to person. Coughing and sneezing spreads the flu in respiratory droplets. Touching a contaminated object or shaking hands with an individual with flu virus on his/her hands and then touching one’s nose, eyes or mouth can lead to infection. Adults and children should be encouraged to cover their mouth when they cough and to refrain from touching their eyes, nose and mouth. They should be kept home from daycare or school if they are sick.
Measures to prevent infection include frequent hand washing with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer. Cough or sneeze into a tissue. Stay at least six feet away from sick persons.
Stay aware of the current epidemic by following the reports on television and practice the simple preventative measures. If you do develop flu-like symptoms, early treatment can shorten the length of time you are sick and make your symptoms less severe.
by: David Soper, M.D.
To learn more about the swine flu, listen to a podcast and watch a video by Dr. Michael Schmidt, PhD, Professor of Infectious Diseases.
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