• Original Articles By Dr. Lavin Featuring Expert Advice & Information about Pediatric Health Issues that you Care the Most About

    H1N1 Influenza (swine flu): Two Groups of Concern


    H1N1 Influenza (swine flu): Two Groups of Concern


    In a recent report from the World Health Organization (from July 31, 2009), an
    overall very reassuring picture was once again described, but two groups
    have emerged as of concern in this H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) epidemic:
    pregnant women and severely ill people.


    Pregnant Women

    Acoss the world, and in the US, if you are pregnant, you are more likely to get
    more ill from the H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) virus. This infection can also be a
    threat to the well-being of the fetus. If you are pregnant and get a runny
    nose, fever, achy body pain, see your doctor right away.

    Serious Illness

    The second group of note discussed were those who do get very ill from H1N1
    influenza (swine flu) virus. How do you know if you are seriously ill?
    When you have these symptoms:

    • shortness of breath, either during physical activity or while resting
    • difficulty in breathing
    • turning blue
    • bloody or coloured sputum
    • chest pain
    • altered mental status
    • high fever that persists beyond 3 days
    • low blood pressure.

    In children, danger signs include fast or difficult breathing,
    lack of alertness, difficulty in waking up, and little or no desire to play.


    If you or your child has any of these symptoms, call your doctor urgently.

    If your child comes to Advanced Pediatrics, call and we will see him or

    her the same day.


    Bottom Line

    The vast majority of people with infection from H1N1 Influenza (swine flu)

    virus do very well.


    Pregnant women infected with H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) virus are more likely

    to get more ill.


    Anyone pregnant with any signs of illness, and all others with serious signs

    should seek medical attention promptly.


    Dr. Lavin

    *Disclaimer*
    The comments contained in this electronic source of information do not constitute and are not designed to imply that they constitute any form of individual medical advice. The information provided is purely for informational purposes only and not relevant to any person’s particular medical condition or situation. If you have any medical concerns about yourself or your family please contact your physician immediately. In order to provide our patients the best uninfluenced information that science has to offer,we do not accept samples of drugs, advertising tchotchkes, money, food, or any item from outside vendors.

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