H1N1 Flu and Seasonal Flu: When to Seek Medical Care
JAN 12, 2010H1N1 Flu and Seasonal Flu: When to Seek Medical Care
The Department of Health has developed this fact sheet to provide basic information about when medical care is needed for influenza. Learn more at http://doh.sd.gov or call 1-800-738-2301.
Testing and treatment
Most people with seasonal or H1N1 flu recover without a visit to a health provider. Testing and treatment are neither needed nor recommended for most children and adults with the flu. Antiviral medications should be reserved for those people who are severely ill or at higher risk for complications from the flu (pregnant women, young children, adults with chronic health conditions, and for seasonal flu, also older adults).
Children and adults who are ill and at high risk for complications or those with severe symptoms should call their health provider about whether they need to be seen. Do not go to the emergency room unless you cannot reach your provider and you have severe symptoms or a chronic condition that puts you at higher risk.
Take medications for symptom relief as needed for fever and pain such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, Nuprin ®), and cough medicine. These medicines do not need to be taken regularly if your symptoms improve.
Do not give aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or products that contain aspirin (e.g. bismuth subsalicylate - Pepto Bismol) to children or teenagers 18 years old or younger.
Children younger than 4 years of age should not be given over-the-counter cold medications without first speaking with a health care provider.
Seeking medical care
If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs seek medical care: Children
| Adults
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**Information from the South Dakota Department of Health**
600 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501-2536
(605) 773-3361