H1N1 and seasonal flu are expected to be prevalent throughout Canada this fall and winter.

If you feel ill, use the guidelines below to help you decide what to do.

PROBABLY NOT THE FLU...

If you have not had a fever - even if you have one or more of these symptoms:

• sore throat
• runny nose
• stuffy nose

YOU COULD HAVE A FLU...

If you develop a sudden fever over 38 C (100.4 F),  along with a cough and one or more of these symptoms:

• sore throat
• joint pain
• muscle aches
• tiredness or fatigue

If your symptoms are mild and you're not considered 'high risk' for the flu, stay home, treat your fever and other symptoms, drink fluids and rest until you feel well enough to return to work or school.  Most people recover from the flu without any problems.

Parents should also realize that children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.  Elderly people and people with lower immunity may not develop a fever, yet may still have the flu.

IF YOU'RE HIGH RISK, AND YOU HAVE THE FLU...

Early treatment (within 24 to 48 hours) may be very important. 

Contact your health care provider...

• If you have flu symptoms and risks for severe illness (eg. chronic illness, weakened immune system, obesity, alcoholism, substance abuse, smoking, pregnancy, Aboriginal ancestry).  
• If your flu symptoms get worse (even if you don't have risks for severe illness) or if you are concerned about your health - even if you have already seen your doctor about this illness.
• Children under five and adults over 65 have been at greater risk for severe H1N1 illness.

WHEN THE FLU IS AN EMERGENCY...

Go for emergency medical help if you or a loved one has any of the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• severe weakness
• dehydration or no urination for 12 hours
• drowsiness or confusion
• fever in an infant under three months old