How can you tell if you have the seasonal flu or H1N1 (swine) flu? The symptoms for all flu, including H1N1, are similar, so it can be difficult and confusing to tell the difference. According to Flu.gov, H1N1 symptoms may be more severe and also include vomiting and diarrhea. 



Seasonal Flu Symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Coughing and/or sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Headaches and/or body aches
  • Chills
  • Fatigue

H1N1 Flu Symptoms
  • Fever
  • Coughing and/or sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Headaches and/or body aches
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Contact your doctor if you experience the symptoms above. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.


Emergency Warning Signs in Children:
  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Emergency Warning Signs in Adults:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

What every parent should know about the swine flu vaccine
Published 11/13/2009

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