What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a type of influenza A that often makes swine or pigs sick.

"Previously when people had the swine flu you could track they had contact with pigs. This time the people who have the virus have apparently caught it from other humans," said Dr. Dianne McCallister, the chief medical officer at Porter Adventist.

The concern is the virus has changed so it can jump from human to human, said McCallister.

What are the symptoms?

Fever, cough and sore throat; some also report vomiting and diarrhea.

Seek immediate medical attention if you child has bluish skin color, fever with a rash or symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath are signs of problems in both children and adults.

Grownups should also seek immediate help if they have pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness or confusion.

What precautions can you take?

Wash your hands often, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, and avoid close contact with sick people.

If you become sick, stay home. Studies suggest canceling gatherings in the early stages of a pandemic can limit its spread.

What treatment is available?

"The flu shot will lessen the symptoms but it will not prevent this flu," said McCallister. Tamiflu and Relenza are effective against this new strain.

People with symptoms should contact their doctor, who can decide if flu testing is needed.