What is the swine flu?
The H1N1 influenza virus is commonly referred to as the swine flu due to the fact that some of the genetic make up of the virus is from a flu that normally circulates in pigs.  H1N1 spreads from person to person in the same way that seasonal influenzas spread: having close contact with someone who is coughing or sneezing.  Most people who acquire the swine flu experience mild to moderate flu symptoms, including: cough, fever, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, stuffy or runny nose, and fatigue.  Some people also have vomiting and diarrhea.

Flu Prevention

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizer
• Keep hands away from your nose, eyes, mouth and face
• Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow, not hands
  
• Stay at home and rest if you feel as if you may be getting the flu
• Get plenty of sleep to maximize your immune system's efficacy
• Take probiotics: L. acidophilus and B. Bifidus at 10 billion organism per day has been shown to help prevent the flu (ask your doctor if you have any conditions such as diverticulitis or a suppressed immune system, as probiotics might not be recommended)
  
• Increase your daily intake of protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, supplemented with a multivitamin, if indicated
  
• If you are breastfeeding, continue to do so, as breast milk will increase the baby's immune system
• Maintain your vitamin D status: contact your doctor to find out what your level is and whether supplementation is recommended, as it can be toxic if overdosed
• Exercise regularly to keep your immune system healthy
• Listerine mouthwash has been shown to kill influenza A virus when exposed to the virus for 30 seconds.  The active ingredients in Listerine are eucalyptol (from eucalyptus trees), menthol (from mint plants), methyl salicylate (wintergreen oil, found in many plants including mint), and thymol (from the herb thyme).
  
• Influenza vaccination, if you choose to do so and are a candidate for the vacci
  

Home remedies include (for mild flu symptoms; seek urgent care for severe flu symptoms)

• Homeopathic oscillococcinum: 10 pellets under the tongue, 3 times a day until symptoms improve
• Vitamin C: 1000mg (adult) or 250mg (child) 4 times a day until symptoms improve
• HEEL homeopathic flu formula: 1 tablet under the tongue, 3 times a day until symptoms improve
• Probiotics: 10 billion organisms daily
• Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Plenty of water to stay well hydrated
  
• At least 8 hours of sleep each day

For more information, please contact your doctor, and view the CDC website on the 2009 influenza virus, including H1N1.