:::::H1N1???::::::

The signs of H1N1 infection, which are similar to other forms of influenza, include:

• fever
• coughing
• headaches
• muscle or joint pain
• sore throat
• chills
• fatigue
• runny nose
• diarrhea and vomiting (in some cases)

People at higher risk of serious complications include:

• people age 65 years or older
• children younger than 5 years old
• pregnant women
• people of any age with conditions like asthma, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, HIV/AIDS or other conditions that weaken the immune system

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 70% of hospitalizations in the U.S. have been people with such underlying conditions.

However, there is some evidence that H1N1, like previous strains of pandemic influenza, can also cause serious illness in some otherwise healthy children and young adults.

Symptoms that may require medical attention

Certain symptoms may require emergency medical attention.

In children:

• signs of respiratory distress
• blue lips and skin
• dehydration
• rapid breathing
• excessive sleeping, extreme irritability and unwillingness to be held
• persistent vomiting
• the return of flu-like symptoms that include a fever and cough

In adults:

• shortness of breath
• pain in the chest or abdomen
• sudden dizziness or confusion
• persistent vomiting
• the return of flu-like symptoms that include a fever and cough