Can it be prevented?

Influenza antiviral drugs also can be used to prevent influenza when they are given to a person who is not ill, but who has been or may be near a person with swine influenza. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70% to 90% effective. When used for prevention, the number of days that they should be used will vary depending on a person’s particular situation.

Follow this general procedure to reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus, you should:

* Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue
* Throw the tissue away quickly and carefully
* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
* Clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product
* Keep away from others as much as possible. This is to keep from making others sick. Do not go to work or school while ill
* Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone, except to seek medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
* Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated
* Wear a facemask – if available and tolerable – when sharing common spaces with other household members to help prevent spreading the virus to others.