by Thom W. Conroy

Created on: November 10, 2009

The most recent outbreaks of the H1N1 Swine Flu have global implications, and because of this and the manner in which the flu is spread precautions in caring for a sick person with Swine Flu have escalated accordingly. The H1N1 Swine Flu is predominantly spread through the germs expelled in a cough or sneeze of an infected individual, and enter the bodies of other people through the mouth and nose. Objects that have the H1N1 virus on them can also promote infection, as an individual touches an object getting the virus on their hands, and them touching their nose or mouth. Taking care of a sick person with Swine Flu should be performed by those in generally good health, never by those with weakened immune systems due to illness or disease, or by pregnant women. Due to the relative ease by which the Swine Flu is spread, at home, only one member of the family should be a caregiver for an ill family member to minimize the risk to others present.

An individual infected with Swine Flu should be immediately isolated and visitors should not be allowed. The "sick room" should have adequate ventilation and heat, and should contain all of the medications and medical supplies that are necessary to combat the illness. It is important to remember that the virus can infect others by traveling through the air, so opening and closing doors excessively puts others in the home at risk. The room in which a Swine Flu patient resides should be wiped down with an disinfectant several times a day, and the patient should be reminded frequently to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing. It is also wise for a patient to wipe their hands with a disposable disinfectant cloth after every sneeze or cough to limit the transfer of germs to objects in the room. Whenever possible, a Swine Flu patient should have the use of a bathroom to themselves, and it requires disinfecting often after use.

Most of the normal measures of treating Swine Flu at home are similiar to regular influenza in many aspects - rest, drinking plenty of clear fluids and maintaining proper nutrition are imperative to recovery. Additionally, a physician may prescribe antiviral medications or advise of special instructions for patients suffering from Emphysema, Diabetes, Asthma or heart conditions that need to be followed closely. In children infected with Swine Flu, never give aspirin as it may cause Reve's Syndrome. An alternative can be either acetaminophen or ibuprofen, based upon the instructions of a physician.

While most cases of Swine Flu will generally pass in a week to 10 days, immediate medical attention should be sought if a patient has trouble breathing, shows signs of excessive vomiting or dehydration or has seizures.

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