REGIONAL -- Many people are concerned about the novel H1N1 flu virus. CDC has determined this new H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from person-to-person, like seasonal flu. The symptoms of this new H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. A significant number of people also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
      Most people who have been sick with this virus in the U.S. have recovered at home without treatment. If your child has flu-like symptoms, please keep him or her at home until symptoms resolve and they are fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medicine - this is usually 5 to 7 days.
      Like seasonal flu, complications can occur with novel H1N1 flu. Seek emergency medical care if your child becomes ill and experiences any of the following warning signs:
      * Fast breathing
      * Trouble breathing
      * Bluish or gray skin color
      * Not drinking enough fluids
      * Not urinating as much as usual
      * Severe or persistent vomiting
      * Not waking up or interacting as usual
      * Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
      * Fever returns after being absent for a day, or a significant change in fever pattern occurs. For example, it was 101 degrees Fahrenheit for several days and now it's 103 degrees.
      Again, seek emergency medical care if your child becomes ill and experiences any of those warning signs.
      It's important that your child not be exposed to other children who are sick, and if your child has a flu-like illness that he or she does not expose other people, in order to keep from spreading the illness. Covering coughs and sneezes will also reduce the spread of the virus. Good hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the flu.
      The Iowa Department of Public Health has opened a public phone line for questions about the H1N1 virus which is 1-800-447-1985.