Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in swine. Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred. The Swine Flu is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Information taken from CDC Website

Symptoms of Swine Flu are the same as typical influenza symptoms. Influenza symptoms may be as follows:

• Fever (usually high)
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults

Information taken from CDC Website

Recommended prevention measures are the same as to prevent any common cold from spreading.

• Cover all coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• Wash your hands frequently especially after coughing, sneezing, and blowing your nose
• Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes
• Properly dispose of all contaminated tissues
• Stay at home if you are sick

Information taken from Polk County Health Department

The Osceola School District will continue to maintain its rigorous cleanliness standards which will be the best prevention against any flu spreading.

For more information regarding any Wisconsin cases of Swine Flu please contact the Polk Count Health Department by dialing
1-715-485-8824.

For more information please contact the Polk County Health Department by dialing 1-715-485-8824. This number will provide an automated message with Swine Flu information. By following the message prompts, you can speak with a nurse if needed.