You may have heard people talking a lot lately about something called “H1N1” or “swine” flu. And you might wonder what it is.
Here are some answers to questions you may have about the flu. And facts about what your family, schools and health care workers are doing to help you stay healthy and safe.
Q. What is the flu?
A. The flu is a sickness caused by germs. H1N1 is a flu caused by germs that weren’t known before this year. H1N1 is also called a pandemic flu.
Q. What is a flu pandemic?
A. A flu pandemic is when people from all over the world become sick with the same disease at the same time. Some may get very sick. However, most recover.
Q. What can I do to stay healthy and safe?
A. There are lots of things you can do.
First, get a flu shot.
Second, wash your hands with soap and water, or use a product called “hand sanitizer.”
Third, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
Fourth, don’t share food or drinks with others.
Fifth, stay home when you are sick.
Q. How will I feel if I have the flu?
A. You might have a fever, chills, headache, stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, stomach pain and throwing up.
Q. What should I do if I get sick?
A. Get lots of rest and stay home when you’re sick. Drink lots of water and other fluids. Remember to wash your hands with soap and water or a hand sanitizer, and not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
Q. Who’s helping us stay healthy and safe?
A. Public health workers, doctors, nurses and scientists are all working together to keep you healthy and safe. A new H1N1 flu vaccine scientists developed to fight the flu is ready for use. Teachers and schools are educating kids about what the flu is and how you can avoid it. Also, people in the news media are informing the public about the flu and what they can do to protect themselves.
Q. Who can I talk with about the flu?
A. Your parents and teachers want to know how you feel and want to help you. Tell them what your questions are and together you can find answers.
Here are two Web sites that have helpful H1N1 facts for your parents:
Here are some Web sites with facts for you and ideas about becoming a flu fighter:
Q. It’s hard to remember everything about fighting the flu. Is there anything to help me remember?
A. Here’s a song to help you remember to wash your hands, which is an important germ-fighter.
Sing the song two times to the tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” while washing your hands with soap and water:
Wash, wash, wash my hands,
Make them nice and clean,
Rub the bottoms and the tops,
And fingers in between.
It’s easy, and it’s fun, to be a flu-fighter!