Some people, however, are more likely to develop complications from H1N1, as is the case with other flu strains. This includes people with chronic health conditions, those who live in a nursing home or other chronic care facility, and people who are older than 65.  Children younger than five are also more likely to develop complications.  Complications from the H1N1 virus include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections. If people have long-term chronic diseases, the flu can make their disease symptoms worse.
What are the symptoms of H1N1?
The symptoms of H1N1 are similar to other strains of the flu. The most common symptoms are:
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Body aches
  • Head aches
  • Chills
  • No appetite
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Runny nose
Gerald Predy, senior medical officer with Albert Health Services, says the hallmark of the virus, however, is just how quickly it strikes. “It comes on very suddenly,” he told CTV News Channel. “You feel fine in the morning then by noon you can’t move.”
What’s the best way to prevent H1N1?
The best way to protect you and your family from any flu strain is to get a flu shot.  You can find a flu clinic near you by clicking this link, provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada.  Beyond that, there are also other things you can do to limit your chances of getting the flu:
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Wash them before and after eating, and after you have been in a public place, used a washroom, coughed or sneezed, and touched a common surface.
  • Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand.
  • Keep your hands away from your face, as in most cases the flu enters your body through the eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Keep common surface such as door knobs, keyboards, light switches and phones clean and disinfected.
  • If you think you have the flu, stay at home, as this will limit the chances of you passing the virus on to someone else.
  • Eat healthy food and engage in physical activity in order keep your immune system strong.