Here's the difference, the swine flu tends to hit children and young teenagers the hardest.  Studies have shown that there is not much swine activity in the elderly population, however, statistics prove that it is the elderly population who contract the regular flu and are the most affected with severe symptoms and sometimes death.

 

Most doctors and pediatricians testing individuals with flu symptoms are testing for influenza A, not the actual swine flu, however, doctors and pediatricians are relating influenza A with the swine flu.  There are too many cases to test every individual and not enough storage for blood samples from each person.

Symptoms begin with a mild sore throat.  Within 24 hours, the feeling of being very tired will begin to overcome you and then the high fever and chills will set in.  It is difficult to get up, eat, drink, or do anything else for that matter.  Take in lots of fluids such as water or juice and rest, rest, rest.  The immune system is working its hardest when the body is resting.   The swine flu will hit its peak around the 36 hours after the first sign, then will begin to subside.  Monitor the symptoms and fever and go to the emergency room if necessary. 

 

Tylenol, Motrin, and Ibuprofen are good fever reducers / pain relievers.  Try going to the natural food and vitamin store.  Sometimes, you will find natural supplements that will help speed up recovery.  Vitamin C is an excellent source, as it helps boost the immune system.   Echinacea and Oregonol are also good sources that help the immune system that works hard to fight off bacteria and viruses.  It's an all natural way to help the body fix itself.  Enlist the help of a Nutritionalist  to find the right regimen for you.

 

With 2 children (7 year old and 12 year old) and a husband diagnosed with influenza A all at the same time, I'm well aware of the precautions.  Sanitize the entire home with Lysol everyday spraying the most touched areas such as light switches, doorknobs, etc.  Make sure all those who are ill wash their hands every time they are able to get up to use the bathroom or get a drink.  Don't allow yourself or other family members to get too close and keep clean hands.  Myself and 4 year old were able to avoid getting the swine flu by taking these precautions.  Not everyone in the same household as a swine flu victim, will actually contract the swine flu if there is proper sanitation.  We went through 4 cans of Lysol in a week along with two bottles of hand sanitizer.